Focus on young players

By PATRICIA KEAMO
NATIONAL head coach Marcos Gusmao says next year’s Fifa World Cup regional qualifiers in Qatar will be the last tournament for some veterans while youth players will be given more priority.
He told The National yesterday that he would shake up the national men’s football squad when taking over preparations following his quarantine on arrival.
Gusmao said he would arrive in Port Moresby by this afternoon or tomorrow.
“The tournament (qualifiers) is going to be very tough and I need experienced players,” the Brazilian said.
“But I will probably mix the team.
“Obviously, this will be the last competition for some players, so we’ll revise the selection process with more priority on younger players.
“PNG need to renew themselves and be ahead of their opponents in Oceania.
“I’m experienced in high-level tactical training and younger players will understand me.”
Gusmao said the first camp held in Lae last month was focused on physicality in order to get players in shape, but in the second camp, he would introduce his style of play.