“The team has come off a tournament where the results didn’t go as everybody had hoped, so it’s just bringing a bit of stability back now and getting the team to believe in themselves again.
“Really, this starting camp is the beginning of the preparation for the Asian Cup and that’s another important responsibility I have.”
Sermanni confirmed he would not seek to take over the role on a permanent basis, as he did in stints from 1994-1997 and 2005-2012, however he would remain in the job for “however long I’m needed”.
Tom Sermanni is back for a third stint as Matildas coach, this time on an interim basis.Credit: Getty Images
“The reality in any team is that change happens gradually. Yes, I would suggest over my period, depending on how long it is, there will be a degree of change, but the wholesale stuff is just not realistic.”
Football Australia CEO James Johnson said they were “not in a rush” to announce a full-time appointment, adamant the body was comfortable with Sermanni’s “safe pair of hands” until the right candidate emerged – either globally or domestically.
Matildas veteran Tameka Yallop said the playing group had faith FA shared the values they would want in their next coach.
“I think our best [coaches] have known our Australian football culture, and have allowed us to bring our never-say-die attitude,” Yallop said.
“The standards and attributes we’ve carried in the team for a long time, the coaches who have allowed us to continue that and then foster growth within the sport here have been our best coaches.”