Good Luck Frank

Frank Farina has been unveiled as the coach of Sydney FC until the end of this A League season, and one wishes him well. He will certainly have his work cut out for him.

It has to be said that it is a strange appointment, as Farina has never had a reputation as being a strong authoritative leader; which is what it would appear Sydney FC need. He has never been acknowledged as being a great tactician either. So why was he appointed?

Sydney FC Chairman Scott Barlow either did not do his homework or was simply using the usual platitudes when at the announcement he was quoted as saying “Frank has coached at the highest level and has dealt with the demands of coaching a high profile team. He also brings with him a wealth of A-League coaching experience that will serve him well as he joins us part way through our season.We believe Frank has the experience, leadership and coaching acumen to have a positive and immediate impact on Sydney FC.”

There are some who are claiming that Farina’s appointment is another example of ‘jobs for the boys’ at the A Leagues supposed Premier club. There are others who have stated that he was the only coach who was prepared to take the role without bringing in his own staff as assistants. Sydney FC not wanting to show assistant coach Steve Corica and Goalkeeping coach Zeljko Kalac the door.

Ultimately it doesn’t matter, Farina is the new coach and he faces the toughest assignment in his coaching career to turn the team around. If he succeeds he will not only be a hero, but will secure his coaching future for several more years at least. Sadly if he fails he will fade into the background with so many former Socceroos who the game in this country has failed to look after. One thing is for sure it will not be easy.