Filipinas head coach Mark Torcaso will also be part of Fegidero’s coaching staff starting in the Merdeka Cup, in the wake of Tom Saintfiet's abrupt departure.
It appears the Philippine Men’s National Football Team found a new head coach--at least for the Merdeka Cup.
Norman Fegidero will call the shots for the Philippines starting in the Merdeka Cup but on an interim basis, after the shocking departure of Tom Saintfiet.
[ALSO READ: Philippine men's national football team in search of new head coach after sudden departure of Tom Saintfiet]
Director of Senior National Teams for the Philippines Freddy Gonzales confirmed the decision on Thursday, August 29.
Fegidero’s coaching staff will include Philippine Women's National Team head coach Mark Torcaso alongside Andrew Durante, Sinisha Cohadzic, and Garrath McPherson.
Gonzales also bared his disappointment with the seeming last-minute exit of the Belgian tactician.
"We had a longterm contract with Tom, and had every intention of seeing it through.”
“That he came to me about the Mali job just as we're about to depart for the Merdeka Cup is obviously disappointing. But it made clear to me that his heart was already set elsewhere.”
“I have no interest in holding on to anyone who's not fully committed to the Philippines and our goals.”
He added that the search for a permanent coach is the top most priority, also emphasizing the need for people who “who are all in” for the job.
"It's the only way we will succeed. That goes for the players, the staff, and most definitely our head coach. We intend to get that man on board very soon."
The Philippines will open their Merdeka Cup campaign against host Malaysia on September 4.