Pim Verbeek is the new coach of the Socceroos.

[Dirko]

The FFA today named Pim Verbeek as the new Head Coach of the Socceroos through to the end of the 2010 FIFA World Cup campaign.
This is keeping in line with the infatuation with the Dutch game (one I am happy out if in doubt look at my avatar !!).
Graham Arnold will remain at assistant. He will be based in Australia which is a good thing.
Previous coaching stints at Feyenoord, PSV, Kyoto Sanga in the J League and both UAE & Korea Republic.
He knows the path through Asia which is good, and is also well versed in the European game.
Well done Pim !!

[smithy]

Never heard of him, but being Dutch would've helped his cause..
Their reputation of "total football' is renowned..(if only the national team could win something)

hope he does well and glad it's over...

Can he convince Ryan Babel to play for the socceroos

[devilsadvocate]

Pretty sure that when it comes to football, the Dutch have the best coaching school by some distance. I recall a football program highlighting the influx of international coaching wannabes into the Dutch system as it is unique in its quality.

Anyhoo, seems like a good appointment with good knowledge of the Asian system to compliment the European background. I'm glad Arnie remains assistant and that they're both based in Aus.

Time will tell, but if he's coaching us in a 2010 WC Finals group game, he'll have done his job.

[Dutchy]

anyone see the press conference? looked like it was held on the moon!