Football NZ deliver in-person apology to Football Ferns as focus turns to World Cup qualifiers

Tom Sermanni will begin his tenure in charge after a member of the team reached out to him to apply for the role.

New Zealand Football bosses have given a face to face apology to the Football Ferns today, as the team begins life after former coach Andreas Heraf.

The squad, in camp for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers, held clear-the-air talks with board members this morning.

Interim chief executive Andrew Pragnell said it was a positive step forward.

"I think trust is built over time. I think it was a significant milestone, I don't think it was the only one. We need to show a commitment to keep getting better and better."

Captain Ali Riley said the players were ready to move forward.

"It's a whole different energy. It feels like a weight has been lifted," she said.

"Our culture and that closenesss, that family feeling, is something that we've prided ourselves on for many years. And I think a little bit of that [trust] did get broken, but we're in a really good place today.

Retired skipper Abby Erceg was present at the meeting today and yesterday's team session.

Coach Tom Sermanni revealed he had a cup of tea with her today, but wouldn't confirm whether she would be making herself available for selection again.

Erceg is the Ferns' most capped player and refused to play for the side under the Heraf regime.

"We just chatted, just generally, about what her thoughts might be," he said.

"She was involved yesterday, which was very important because she's been a very critical part of this programme, and was there this morning to be part of the meeting with the [board]."

Football Ferns' Nations Cup squad

GK:  Erin Nayler, Vic Esson, Nadia Olla

Def : Liz Anton, CJ Bott, Anna Green, Meikayla Moore, Sarah Morton, Ali Riley (C), Rebekah Stott

Mid:  Katie Bowen, Betsy Hassett, Grace Jale, Annalie Longo, Ria Percival, Emma Rolston, Steph Skilton, Malia Steinmetz

For:  Sarah Gregorius, Katie Rood, Paige Satchell, Rosie White

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