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Posted by
Ian Clarke,
April 14, 2011 |
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Stephen Hart addressed the media Thursday afternoon with regards to their upcoming friendly June 1st against Ecuador in a short Q&A with Sportsnet's Gerry Dobson. Hart discussed the benefits of getting a match in before the Gold Cup against a quality opponent, but also set out his thoughts and what appears to be the order of priorities for the Men's National Team throughout the rest of the year.
Hart was asked directly about the decision to bring in Ecuador and whether or not it had any bearing on wanting to stay within the style they'd be competing against in the Gold Cup.
"We had two European countries willing to come and play," confirmed Hart.
"Ecuador though, their style and athleticism matched with teams we'll be playing at the Gold Cup. They are on a high trying to build their program back up and would be a very good preparation game for us."
"Many players on Ecuador would be looking to prove themselves to the coach and give us the kind of game needed going into a competitive tournament."
The questions and discussion then focused on the Gold Cup as well as what the tournament meant towards building for World Cup Qualifying later in the year.
Of the teams that are coming out of the Caribbean Cup and Copa Centroamericana, Hart identified Group C competition Panama as a team that stood out as one that has been extremely consistent and are very dynamic and athletic. The other being 2009 and World Cup Qualifying rivals Jamaica.
Hart was asked his thoughts on how the team is looking going into the Gold Cup compared to the previous two where he has been at the helm, as well as how it will be useful for preparing for Qualifying come the fall.
"A tournament format is so much different from qualification," explained Hart, "You go into a tournament and it has different phases and rounds, but especially you are playing in a country where things are consistent in terms of travel and accommodations."
"We have a good idea of the squad," Hart continues, "This time around one of the big decisions is what kind of squad to bring in? This is based on number one: Who is available? But also number two: we are still unsure about what the World Cup Qualifying format will be for CONCACAF, which will determine and be a big factor into the type of squad we bring and what our aims are."
Which was followed by what is clearly the main objective for the CSA and the Senior Men's Team.
"Word Cup qualifying is everything for us. Everything. That is what we want."
Gerry Dobson continued on that note and dug deeper to ask if Stephen Hart had his choice, where in a new format the top 6 teams in CONCACAF would get a bye, would he want to get more games in or wait until the next round.
"I would prefer not to play them. The fatigue factor comes into play, and we have players who are playing every minute and every game for their club."
Hart explains further, "As well there are several who have not been playing consistently with their club and are fighting for minutes, which is the message I'm sending to them. If they are in a situation where they have to leave their club to fly home to play games, you put their team selection in jeopardy."
Overall Stephen Hart appeared confident and at ease when discussing the state of the Canadian Men's National Team. He was candid in his responses and open to answering whatever was sent his way.
On David Junior Hoilett's international status
"I made a statement that I really don't want to discuss the situation with David anymore. He knows he's wanted. I did have an opportunity to meet with him, the door is open and it's his decision."
On Mike Klukowski leaving Ankaragucu and whether it will effect a call-up
"I knew of Mike's situation before it happened. He's a professional, he'll keep himself sharp. The decision will be made on the Gold Cup squad soon. The season in Europe is going late this year into May because of the World Cup and it could be a factor in calling up certain players for the Gold Cup."
On Playing the U.S. and staying focused
"You always have to keep things in perspective, and that's my job. The players love to play the U.S., in their home. For us it's our opening game, a special game, but my job is to keep everything on a balance - it is one game out of three."
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