Football: Darren Bazeley linked to Phoenix job

Darren Bazeley. Photo / Paul Taylor.

Former England U21 international Darren Bazeley is the latest name to be linked to the vacant Wellington Phoenix head coach position, with reports surfacing that Bazeley has been in discussions with staff at the club.

Bazeley is a current All Whites assistant coach and has some experience with many of the Phoenix squad, in both that capacity but also in a previous role as coach of the New Zealand U20 men's team.

The 44-year-old may become a contender for the role, but would be a risky choice. He has limited experience as a head coach, and struggled to implement a defined playing style during his two seasons in charge of the Wanderers in New Zealand's domestic competition.

Bazeley enjoyed a decorated career in England, with Watford, Wolverhampton Wanderers and Walsall, before immigrating to New Zealand with his family in 2005 to play for the New Zealand Knights in the A League.

Bazeley has worked with many of the Phoenix roster, including the likes of Glen Moss, Andrew Durante, Michael McGlinchey, Kosta Barbarouses with the national team and some of the younger players from their involvement in the Under-20's, something that might be seen as an advantage for a coach coming in part way through a campaign.

Bazeley also holds his UEFA A-License, but is unproven as a head coach. He achieved success with the New Zealand team at the 2015 Under-20 World Cup, as they made the knockout stages for the first time. It was a meritious effort, but needs to be put in perspective.

Bazeley also enjoyed an unprecedented buildup, having the bulk of his squad together for two seasons as the Wanderers. Despite that, he was unable to settle on his best XI, and changed formation and personnel significantly during the tournament. Bazeley also had the advantage of a tournament on home soil, but their only win was over minnows Myanmar.