Wellington Phoenix head coach Ricki Herbert has been given a huge vote of confidence by the club’s new owners.
Wellington Phoenix head coach Ricki Herbert has been given a huge vote of confidence by the club-s new owners.
Herbert, who has been with the Phoenix from its conception, has agreed a new contract, which could keep him at the club for the next four years.
Phoenix chairman Rob Morrison said the contract was for two years as head coach, with a two-year option on football-related matters.
“We wanted to lock Ricki in as soon as possible as he has done a terrific job for the Phoenix,” Morrison said.
“We have a long-term view for the club and this helps us to achieve that.
“When we took over our main aim was to create stability and plan for the future.
“Sometimes you have to get away from the day to day running of a company, be it in the business sector or sporting arena and look to the future.
“We are aware results on the field are important, but so is building a structure upon which success can be founded.
“It is important that we get things right.”
Herbert said the new contract meant he could now look ahead with certainty.
“The main thing is the future of the Wellington Phoenix Football Club. That is assured, and we can look ahead and build on what we have achieved over the first four years,” Herbert said.
“The vision the owners have for the club is encouraging and I look forward to being a part of making it successful.
“We-ve had a tough start with injuries and suspensions but we have a good, close-knit bunch of players and I expect them to continue to show the character and determination that has seen the club make the playoffs in the last two seasons.”
