New Wellington Phoenix coach Mark Rudan says he loves a challenge, and he has one on his hands at a club that hasn't made the playoffs in four years.
The 42-year-old unveiled as the Nix coach on Wednesday, believes there is light at the end of a very dark tunnel for fans of the yellow and black, as he plans on ringing in a new era of success.
A robust defender in his playing days, Rudan skippered Sydney FC to A-League glory in 2006. He also achieved a measure of success in domestic leagues in Australia, including winning a National Soccer League title with Sydney United – a feeder club to Sydney FC.
The former Australian youth international is excited about his new venture.
"I'm a winner. I hate losing and the players will find that out very quickly," Rudan told media at a press conference on Wednesday.
"We have some fantastic players there that are capable of winning any game at the drop of the hat.
"It's a club that needs to change in a lot of areas and I can assure you there will be changes.
"The football club will understand exactly where we are heading, and that is to be successful both on and off the park.
"There will be non-negotiables along the way, but at the same time it won't be a dictatorship.
"I have my own way of changing culture, and for me it's about people and putting in certain obstacles To challenge people.
"It takes a bit of time – it won't happen overnight."
Currently the Phoenix only have 10 players signed for the 2018/2019 season, but Rudan said recruitment is already underway.
With five oversees player spots available, the former Fox Sports football analysts sees filling those spots as crucial to the success of the club this season.
"It certainly is appealing. We may not fill all five but I know how important getting those signings right is. I will be working 24/7 to ensure we get the right footballers at this club.
"Making the finals is an absolute bare minimum and I'll look to bring in players who believe in that."
Rudan also plans on digging deep into the club's academy programme in a bid to uncover hidden gems in the mould of last season’s breakout star, Sarpreet Singh.
Newshub.
