Leading Auckland club Central United has secured the services of highly respected former National Coach Allan Jones for the 2004 winter season, with an eye very much on the new National Men’s Competition set for a start in October 2004.

Central President Ivan Vuksich announced the appointment of the well-credentialed Jones yesterday. “Allan Jones has been appointed Head Coach of Central United FC for next season’s Northern Premier League. The 2004 season is an important one as it is the lead up to the new National Men’s League and gives potential participants the opportunity to muster their forces for the new competition. The appointment of Allan Jones is an integral part of this strategy as Central United, in conjunction with other clubs in the area, intends to make an application from the Central Auckland region.”

Jones has an impressive CV, including time as National Team Coach with the NZFA in the early 80’s and a further spell as National Youth Team Coach and Director of Coaching with the NZFA from 1989 to 1995. Jones has more recently spent time coaching professionally in the Middle East, with high profile roles in Qatar, United Arab Emirates and Oman.

Jones comes qualified with the UEFA ‘A’ Coaching Licence and is a FIFA Accredited Coach, having worked for the Oceania Football Confederation.

The move will be seen as a clear commitment by the Central club towards their continued involvement at the top level of the domestic game in New Zealand.