Ricki Herbert is the new head coach of Indian Super League club North East United FC.
Herbert managed New Zealand for eight years from 2005-2013 and represented his country at the 1982 FIFA World Cup as a player.
North East United co-owner John Abraham is delighted to secure Herbert’s services for the forthcoming season.
“Ricki is the perfect fit for our plans at North East United FC.
“His experience at the highest levels of competitive football and his youth focused philosophy matches the blue print of North East United FC perfectly,” Abraham says.
Herbert, who was part of the FIFA Technical Study Group led by former Liverpool boss Gerard Houllier during the World Cup in Brazil, was equally pleased to return to the dugout after quitting the All Whites post last year.
“The Indian Super League presents a great opportunity and challenge and with the football crazy North East fans backing us all the way, we’ll be putting our best foot forward. I look forward to this exciting journey,” Herbert says.
The former Wellington Phoenix coach will work with another personality with FIFA World Cup experience in the shape of Joan Capdevila, who was announced as North East United’s marquee player in July.
During his long coaching career Herbert has also overseen the New Zealand Olympic team preparation for Beijing 2008.
He also led Hyundai A-League side Wellington Phoenix from 2007-2013 taking them to the Preliminary Finals in 2010.
Herbert also oversaw New Zealand’s surge up the FIFA ranking from 156 to 48 and led his team to an undefeated run at the World Cup in South Africa after draws with Slovakia, Italy and Paraguay.
