Let's unite behind the Socceroos

To everyone in the Football Family can I say what an honour it is to be named as coach of your team – the Socceroos.

To everyone in the Football Family can I say what an honour it is to be named as coach of your team - the Socceroos.

It-s a huge responsibility because this team belongs to the country and the fans.

The players, coaches and staff have the privilege of representing the nation, and we should never forget it-s a privilege, not an entitlement.

In recent times there has been debate that shows me the Socceroos really matter to so many Australians, who care passionately about the team.

The Socceroos have always reflected what it means to be an Australian. We represent the diversity of our nation. We fight for each other. We punch above our weight. We strive to reach global heights. We do it with spirit and purpose.

I see no reason why we can-t be successful. I don-t want to talk about “Golden Generations” and what might have been. My aim is to be successful and it will be the aim of everyone in the National team set up.

I want to work with the players to ensure the country unites behind the Socceroos at the World Cup in Brazil. Show them that we are representing our fans.

There is a need to balance a long term strategy with short term goals. We are preparing for a World Cup next year and an Asian Cup on home soil, but we must keep one eye on the next World Cup cycle.

I know that FFA has a strategic objective to make football the biggest and most popular sport in Australia. The Socceroos have a massive role to play in that.

Today is not the day to talk about individual players, team selection or tactics. I will say that the Socceroos need rejuvenation for the challenges ahead. Everyone knows that.

But first things first. We have a game in November against Costa Rica and then seven months to prepare for the World Cup. I look forward to seeing you at the forthcoming Socceroos match and around the football community.