Auckland FC have chalked off another milestone following the appointment of Luke Casserly as the club’s inaugural reserve team head coach.
Casserly will lead Auckland’s reserve side in their debut season in the Northern League, while he will also join the Black Knights as an assistant coach to Steve Corica in the Isuzu UTE A-League.
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An eight-time Socceroo, he brings a wealth of experience to the newcomers and Isuzu UTE A-League leaders after six years as head of football and then senior men’s head coach at Hills United FC in New South Wales, Australia.
Prior to that, Casserly was head of national performance at Football Australia, working with both the men’s and women’s team during their respective World Cup campaigns.
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“I can’t wait to get started. Auckland is a club with so much ambition, such passionate fans and a real desire to have a beneficial impact at all levels of the game,” said Casserly.
“There is also some real talent here that perhaps hasn’t had the chance to shine previously. I’m here to change that.
“Steve and I also go way back, playing and living together aged 17 at Marconi Stallions. We linked up and played together in the Socceroos. It is great to be working with him once again.”
Working closely A-Leagues head coach Corica, Casserly will ensure an alignment of playing style between the first and reserve team.
This will mean Auckland’s attacking philosophy runs through both teams and players can progress through the Talent Development Pathway.
“Luke is going to become a vital part of the club and support with our ambitions to provide clear player pathways for New Zealand’s best young talent. We’re pleased to have him as part of Auckland FC” said Auckland FC CEO Nick Becker.
“We started with just a men’s team. Built on that success we’re now rolling with our expansion into all areas of the game from grassroots up.
“The Auckland FC reserves team will provide a stepping stone that allows young players a platform to achieve their dreams, right here in Auckland.”
Auckland are two points clear atop the Isuzu UTE A-League heading into Saturday’s showdown against high-flying Western United in Tarneit.
