As the All Whites enjoy the afterglow of a 1-0 win over Côte d'Ivoire – and prepare for Ukraine tomorrow – the wheels will be in motion for a flurry of transfers involving New Zealand’s top international talent.
The off-season months are going to be critical for any player hoping to be involved at next year’s FIFA World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada.
Some will be on the fringes of their team’s first XIs.
Others, like Ben Waine, will be in search of a new club altogether.
“I’m a free agent, so we’ll have to see what comes my way,” the 23-year-old told Breakfast.
“But it’s an exciting position to be in.”
The former Plymouth Argyle forward, who played at Mansfield on loan this year, agrees players are going to be on the lookout for the best chance to impress their national team coach.
“I think that’s spot on, even for me now [the World Cup is] a massive consideration about where I go next.
“It’s about playing if you want to be involved with such a huge opportunity.”
“I think first and foremost it’s [game time], but also you don’t want to compromise the level you’re playing at, it’s a little bit of a balancing act.”
Finn Surman missed the New Zealand-based finals qualifiers to focus on his career at Portland Timbers, a move that has been vindicated with his return to the All Whites.
“Hindsight’s always easier to speak with, but I think it has worked out in a positive way.
“Now I’m more comfortable in my club and I’m playing more, so it provides us with more competition for places here. That can only help the team.”
The All Whites kick off against Ukraine in their Canadian Shield match at 9am NZT tomorrow.
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