Ricki Herbert has rejected a host of lucrative overseas offers to remain as New Zealand coach.
All Whites coach to remain in charge for 2014 qualifiers
Ricki Herbert has rejected a host of lucrative overseas offers to remain as New Zealand coach.
Herbert led New Zealand to their first World Cup since 1982 and the All Whites exceeded expectations in South Africa this summer, narrowly missing out on the second round after claiming three draws in the group stage.
They included a 1-1 draw with holders Italy and Herbert confirmed he has since had offers from Europe, Asia and Africa.
But the 49-year-old, who played in the 1982 finals, has agreed to continue in his dual role as coach of the All Whites and Wellington Phoenix, New Zealand's only professional club.
Herbert will remain in charge for the All Whites' 2014 World Cup qualifying campaign and has committed to the next three seasons at the Phoenix helm.
"New Zealand Football are happy to continue on with the partnership with Wellington Phoenix and the national team and I've agreed to continue on for the next period for the World Cup," he said on Tuesday.
Loyalty
"One or two (offers) were hard to turn down but I'm very comfortable with my decision.
"At the end of the day, it's not all about money for me - it's loyalty.
"People may say sometimes the grass may be greener but I don't think it is."
Herbert took charge of the All Whites in 2005 and two years later became manager of the Phoenix, who play in Australia's A-League.
Having ended the nation's 28-year wait for a second World Cup finals appearance, he is eager to ensure there is not a repeat of the mistakes made following Spain 1982.
"I'm certainly looking forward to building the brand even more," he said.
"(I've) got a strong memory in my mind when there was a whole raft of changes at the top and then, of course, the major collapse.
"Again, it was part of my decision. I think what we've created needs to continue."
