Interim All Whites coach Darren Bazeley: ‘I’m going to enjoy this opportunity’

All Whites interim head coach Darren Bazeley says he’s going to make the most of this month’s games against China to try to keep alive his chance of getting the job.

In a 15-minute interview with Newstalk ZB’s Jason Pine, Bazeley provided a run-down on the squad to face China, including why some players had been left out and what his options were to utilise the 24-player squad across two games.

He also addressed his approach to the interim role when Pine asked if he found it challenging.

“I wouldn’t describe it as challenging. I’ve enjoyed the whole process. I’m going to enjoy this opportunity I have.”

He said the difficult period had been between the All Whites’ last game and the interview process.

“But once the interviews were done, I’ve been kept informed of how it is,” Bazeley said.

“Andrew Pragnell (NZ Football CEO) did tell me that they had a preferred candidate that they were were having discussions with. That’s fine and what they can do, but he said it was complicated and there was no definite outcome to that, so at this stage to just keep waiting.

“Then the opportunity came up for the interim role which was a great opportunity and yes, I’ll take that and give myself the chance to be in the position and show what I can do with the players for this window.”

Bazeley said there had been no discussions about when the job decision might be finalised but he was ready to focus on the games ahead.

READ MORE: One debutant and two recalls as Bazeley reveals 24-player All Whites squad >>>>

Main photo: Darren Bazeley … eager to show what he can do. Photo: Shane Wenzlick / www.phototek.nz

Jason Pine’s interview with Darren Bazeley

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Fixtures

Game to be played on Thursday March 23, 2023

Gates open at 2.30pm

New Zealand U-22 v China PR
Mt Smart Stadium, Auckland, 3.30pm (NZT)

All Whites v China PR
Mt Smart Stadium, Auckland, 7pm (NZT)

Game to be played on Sunday March 26, 2023

New Zealand U-22 v China PR
Sky Stadium, Wellington, 12.30pm (NZT)

All Whites v China PR
Sky Stadium, Wellington, 4pm (NZT)

Tickets

Tickets are available from $20 to $80 (adult) and $10 to $40 (children aged 2-14).

National squads

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