New Zealand under-20 coach Des Buckingham is remaining tight-lipped on the prospect of replacing Mark Rudan at Wellington Phoenix but did say it was crucial for the club to maintain a strong connection with NZ Football. The 34-year-old Englishman is a former Phoenix assistant coach who stepped into the head coach role alongside Chris Greenacre when Ernie Merrick resigned early in the 2016-17 A-League season. GETTY IMAGES Wellington Phoenix rising star Sarpreet Singh will get a chance to showcase his talents on the international stage. I really enjoyed my time in Wellington and with the Phoenix. "It's a very good and exciting group of players," Buckingham said.

Source: Stuff April 15, 2019 20:47 UTC