Herbert accepts Phoenix wishes, will stay home

Ricki Herbert has to watch the World Cup draw on the internet, like the rest of us.

The All Whites coach had hoped to go to Cape Town for the December 5 draw but has accepted the wishes of the Wellington Phoenix to stay behind for what shapes as a vital A-League home game against Melbourne Victory a day earlier.

Phoenix chief executive Tony Pignata said the decision was reached during an amicable discussion between owner Terry Serepisos, Herbert and himself.

"Of course Ricki wanted to go to the World Cup draw but he was very good about it," Pignata said. "He said `I understand. I'm happy to stay and coach'.

"In the end it was his decision to stay here. He has responsibilities to the Phoenix and is happy to coach on December 4. He's achieved one of his objectives this year with the All Whites, now his second objective is to get the Phoenix in the playoffs."

If the Phoenix had released Herbert for the World Cup draw he would have missed the Friday night home game against Melbourne and the final two days of preparation. The Phoenix are targeting the Melbourne game as a potential season defining one, especially if they pick up points in Newcastle tomorrow and in Brisbane next Sunday.

- © Fairfax NZ News