New challenge: Former Socceroo David Carney set to kick-off managerial career with Wollongong Wolves

Former Socceroo David Carney is back in the footballing scene and is set to commence his managerial career in the NPL with a new-look Wollongong. HEAR FROM CARNEY AHEAD OF HIS DEBUT.

WOLLONGONG Wolves kick off the 2023 NPL season this Friday night with their clash against APIA Leichhardt.

This will be the first test for newly appointed Wolves manager and former Socceroo David Carney, who is set to commence his managerial career with the Wollongong side this season.

Carney, who retired from professional football at Sydney FC in 2018, was appointed to replace Luke Wilkshire, who left the club after last season to move into a youth development role at the Central Coast Mariners.

Now just a few days out from the season’s start, Carney is raring to go.

“It’s more excitement than nerves,” Carney said.

David Carney speaking at the NPL 2023 season launch. Photo: Brett Nielsen

“I’ve got that feeling of what it’s like to be a player again.

“I’m really looking forward to the game, more so for the boys, they’ve worked so hard.

“The fans should be excited to see a fit and fresh team on Friday.”

David Carney of celebrating a goal for Sydney FC against the Central Coast Mariners in 2017 (Photo by Ashley Feder/Getty Images)

Since retirement, Carney has moved to live in the Illawarra area, but has spent much of his time in Europe completing his UEFA coaching licence.

During his playing days, the midfielder was well-travelled, playing the bulk of his footballing club career across various clubs in the UK, but also playing in the likes of Spain, the USA and Uzbekistan, before wrapping up his career back in Australia with Sydney FC.

Carney has undoubtedly taken a lot of influence from these various countries and footballing styles into his coaching craft which will be on display this season.

Sydney FC David Carney and coach Graham Arnold celebrate victory after winning penalty goal shootout defeating Melbourne Victory in the 2017 A-League Grand Final at Allianz Stadium, Sydney. Picture: Brett Costello

“I’ve played under a lot of managers, some good, some not as good,” Carney joked.

“I like to think I’ve learnt the best things from everyone though, and I’ll be taking the best parts into my own coaching style.

“I’m fortunate enough to have a great relationship with Graham Arnold, who I’m in contact with all the time.

“He’s seen the team play, he’s seen clips of them in games and in training, so I’m always asking for his advice and taking his feedback on board along the way.”

Wollongong Wolves celebrating a goal against Rockdale in July 2022. Photo: Pedro Garcia Photography

It has been a busy off-season for the Wollongong Wolves in bolstering their squad, with a number of signings joining the red and white.

Walter Scott, Nenad Vekic, Mirza Muratovic, Harrison Buesnel, Alex Masciovecchio, Chris McStay, Ethan Beaven, and a returning Jake Trew having all been added to the ranks and have created a sense of excitement for the team ahead of the upcoming season.

Lachlan Scott in the action for Wollongong Wolves. Photo: Pedro Garcia Photography

Club captain, Lachlan Scott, is happy with how the team has formed around all these new signings.

“Everyone has meshed together really well,” Scott said.

“There’s been good chemistry on the field and good banter off it, which is always good.

“There are no big heads among the squad.”

Carney said the decision to keep Scott on as captain of the team was an easy one.

“Lachie is a leader, he’s got that aura about him,” Carney said.

“He’s a great character, trustworthy, and importantly the players respect him.

“I think he can definitely benefit from the new signings as well, we’ve got a couple of bombing fullbacks who can deliver him balls.

Lachlan Scott of the Wollongong Wolves FC celebrates scoring a goal during the FFA Cup round of 32 match between the Mt Druitt Town Rangers FC and the Wollongong Wolves FC at Popondetta Park on November 06, 2021 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Mark Kolbe/Getty Images)

“This is his team and he’s relishing it.”

Captain Scott has been at the club since 2019, having previously played a season in the A-League with the Western Sydney Wanderers in 2016-17.

The striker echoes the praise of his manager back towards Carney, with Scott impressed with the new man at the wheel so far.

“He’s done really well for someone who hasn’t coached at this level before,” Scott said.

“He has a wealth of football knowledge, and has done really well in passing advice on to us.”

The Wolves had a tough season in 2022, finishing 9th out of 12, picking up just four wins from 22 games played.

When asked about his side’s chances this season, Carney said, “Let’s just say, I think we have the team to go out and surprise some people this year.”

Friday night’s clash against APIA Leichhardt will take place at WIN Stadium at 7:30pm, preceded by the NPL U20 fixture.