MANILA (16 June 2018) – The Philippines Football Federation (PFF) have announced former England World Cup captain Terry Butcher as the new head coach ahead of the AFF Suzuki Cup at the end of the year.
The AFF Suzuki Cup 2018 starts in November.
The 59-year-old will be assisted by former Irish coach Scott Cooper as senior football adviser and goalkeeping coach Steve Marcells with Chris Greatwich completing the backroom staff.
“I see this as a big challenge,” said Butcher in a video call from Moscow, Russia, where is currently based, covering the World Cup for BBC. “I see a lot of work ahead of us. But it will be fun work. It will be exciting work.”
“I have to say a big thank you to Thomas Dooley for getting the Azkals that far and for improving the team and believing in the team,” said Butcher to the sports.inquirer.net.
Butcher, who played 77 matches for England in a 10-year span that included three World Cup tournaments, last coached for English League Two side Newport County three years ago. He also served as assistant coach to the Scottish National team.
“I want to be challenged. The players have to be challenged. I’m not coming there for a holiday and enjoy the weather. There’s a whole country that your responsibility for. I want to work hard for the team and strive to be the best. There’s no point of going there if you don’t want to be successful. With success comes pressure so we can’t rest on our laurels. There’s no reason why we can’t get high as we possibly can.”
