The All Whites top goalscorer says he's surprised New Zealand Football is considering dropping the "All Whites" nickname because of its racial connotation.
While NZF has not confirmed it may discard the name, it says it is carrying out a variety of measures designed to improve its cultural inclusivity. The national body is reported to have sought feedback from stakeholders on a potential change.
Vaughan Coveny, who played for New Zealand from 1992 to 2006, any decision to remove the All Whites name baffles him.
"I am a bit of traditionalist, I played there for many years and I am surprised they want to do that. It sort of baffles me why they want to go down the track. Will they also then change the All Blacks?" Coveny told the Sydney Morning Herald.
"What's the need to change it? It's been like that for many years. It's about the history, the sport and how far it goes back."