Sydney FC coach Graham Arnold says he attracts interest for coaching roles because he ‘knows how to win’

SYDNEY FC boss Graham Arnold believes there is a simple reason he keeps being linked with the Socceroos job, and it reflects the change in his own circumstances over the past five years.

Sydney FC coach Graham Arnold on Thursday.

SYDNEY FC boss Graham Arnold believes there is a simple reason he keeps being linked with the Socceroos job, and it reflects the change in his own circumstances over the past five years.

After brushing aside a fresh round of speculation that he is the heir apparent to Ange Postecoglou, Arnold had a quick answer to the question of there is an assumption in some quarters that he will lead Australia to the World Cup.

As the Sky Blues prepare to face Melbourne City tonight, looking to extend their lead at the top of the table as their title defence gathers pace, Arnold said his track record meant opportunities were often put in his path.

SOCCEROOS: Arnold says he hasn’t been offered role

SYDNEY FC: Adrian chasing World Cup dream

“Because I know how to win, I know how to teach people how to win,” he said “I’m flattered with the interest but until something real happens I have nothing to say.

Sydney FC coach Graham Arnold on Thursday.

“You always have feelers from overseas in terms of phone calls. I’ve had a couple fro Europe but they’re not ones that interest me.

“I’ve had the experience of going to Japan into a situation that didn’t suit and the environment wasn’t right.

“Whatever move I make has to be the right one, but that’s if I make a move. I could stay here for 10 years if Sydney FC want me.”

It is a far cry from the embattled culture he developed at the Mariners, where a lack of training facilities and constant cost-cutting became a source of strength.

“At the Mariners it was about we had nothing and everyone else had everything,” he said. “We were the poor people, and motivated against the clubs with the marquees.

“Now I motivate the players with the world against us, everyone hates us. Everyone needs to be motivated in a certain way, whether it’s about family, or financials, moving overseas, playing for the Socceroos. You find out what makes them tick and ram that point home.”

Against City Arnold will be able to recall Milos Ninkovic, though probably not into the starting XI after several weeks out with a calf injury.

“Ninkovic is back,” he said “ He’s in the squad tomorrow night, he’s worked hard to get back and he’s got to fight for a place to get back in the starting XI because the starting XI has been fantastic.

“You reward people because of their performances ... Ninkovic is obviously an outstanding player but it just shows you the quality of the squad we have that he may have to start on the bench.”

Originally published as Sydney FC coach Graham Arnold says he attracts interest for coaching roles because he ‘knows how to win’