Phoenix look to Talay to continue Rudan revolution

Ufuk Talay - the man hand-picked by Mark Rudan to replace him - is set to be imminently announced as Wellington Phoenix’s coach for next season.

Sydney FC assistant Ufuk Talay Source: AAP

Second in command at Sydney FC under Steve Corica, Talay was proposed by Western United-bound Rudan, and looks to have pipped former Brisbane Roar assistant Ross Aloisi for the job.

Though yet to hold a top job at A-League level, the Phoenix hierarchy believe Talay, 43, can duplicate the feats of his ex-Sydney FC teammate Rudan, who arrived in Wellington having only coached at NPL level.

Rudan has guided Wellington to the A-League finals and revitalised the ailing club.

Talay, whose playing career included stints in Turkey, Japan and Australia, is regarded as one of the country’s most promising emerging coaches.

He cut his coaching teeth at the Australian Institute of Sport and the Australian Under-17s, before being appointed coach of the Young Socceroos in 2016.

Although contracted to the Sky Blues beyond this session, it’s understood the club have not sought to stand in his way.

Both Phoenix and Sydney declined to comment when contacted by The World Game.