Fifa likes Oceania, so that will never change.
Q: Could you have done a better job?
There are always things you can do better but considering the environment and opposition all the staff were top class. We had seven staff [who] were working long hours. We should be travelling with 10 staff.
Q: The problems started with the players' first touch ...
They were suddenly faced with opponents a lot quicker and better, and prepared to close them down. We need greater emphasis on individual technique. The best players' first touch is continually away from the pressure whereas our touch sits into a tackle environment. Their ability to scan is high ... they've made the decision before the ball is coming. That only comes with playing a lot of games against higher opposition.
Q: It's all about technique ...
We must accept how far behind we are. We need more games, more touches, more games for learning at a younger age. Put them in smaller areas. A New Zealand team would use 6m to 8m in diameter. The Spaniards play 4m ... all shoulder to shoulder. Their awareness and timing of the pass is outstanding.
Q: Our best performer?
Cam Howieson - his leadership , wanting the ball under all pressure situations, his willingness to drive the other players to be accountable.
Q: The under-20s are to play as a team in the national league - will this help?
It's part of the puzzle ... but they need a lot more than 14 games a year.
Q: Leading lights such as Waitakere coach Paul Marshall want a third national league team in Auckland. Your thoughts?
I've always stated there should have been three in Auckland. With only two, it is mainly senior players who get to play. A third Auckland team would allow a much broader base and allow the ethnic communities greater opportunities.
Q: Did you spot a future superstar at the tournament?
The Uzbekistan No 10 (Jamshid Iskanderov). His game intelligence was outstanding. He played in the hole behind their striker. We couldn't counteract him - if you mark him he drifts out and pulls your shape apart. As soon as he's free, he drifts back in.
Q: You were caught putting a figurative gun to the head at one point ...
That was funny. I was walking towards the Uzbekistan coach who was making as if to say "what were you doing?" I signalled we had shot ourselves in the head. It was a private laugh between ourselves.
Q: Anything weird and whacky?
We played Iraq the day after we arrived. It was meant to be closed but the entire Uruguay technical staff turned up. I stopped the game and there were all sorts of fights going on. Then the Uruguay team turned up. After the game I stayed to watch Uruguay play, being a bit cheeky. A disagreement ensued - I was told I'd be arrested which was a first.
Q: Do you want to remain the under-20s coach?
Not going to say yes or no. There has to be a significant change in how the under-20s are run if we are to be World Cup quarter finalists. But for now I've put my name in.
