A-League hits reset mode with coaches

Liverpool English former pro striker Robbie Fowler. Most recently the Manager of Australian A-League outfit Brisbane Roar. Photo: Albert Perez/Getty Images

Newcastle Jets coach Carl Robinson believes Robbie Fowler's exit from Brisbane Roar is another indicator the A-League is in a reset mode.


The Roar confirmed on Monday that they had parted ways with the Liverpool legend less than a season into his tenure.

Fowler's departure means when the league resumes on July 16 after a COVID-19 hiatus, four clubs will be taking to the field under interim coaching staff.

Melbourne Victory are yet to find a long-term replacement for Marco Kurz after sacking the German in January.

It's a similar situation at Western Sydney Wanderers with Jean-Paul de Marigny still in a temporary role following Markus Babbel's departure while Adelaide and Dutchman Gertjan Verbeek parted ways during the shutdown.

"The A-League is at a certain stage in their progression, obviously now with the Fox deal as well, maybe it's a reset stage which is very important," he said.

A former Premier League footballer, Robinson says he was surprised by Fowler's exit but also knows it's part and parcel of being a professional coach.

The Roar have stated they will appoint an Australian to the role, a stance which Robinson says makes sense so long as the club finds the best candidate for the position.

"If there's a same level talent of coach in Australia as there is in Wales, hire the Australian local coach without a doubt ... but you can learn off foreign coaches as well as Australian coaches."
AAP via TheWorldGame