Newly-appointed Central Coast Mariners boss Mike Mulvey believes the club is a ‘sleeping giant’ and is confident he can help bring success to Gosford from next season.
The Mariners unveiled the former Brisbane Roar mentor at a members event on Wednesday night, confirming the Englishman as the club’s new head coach for the next two seasons.
Mulvey has previously enjoyed success in the A-League as coach of Brisbane, guiding the Roar to the Premiership/Championship double in the 2013/14 season.
And while the Mariners have struggled in recent seasons, the 55-year-old is confident he can help return a winning culture to the club.
“I think they’re [fans] starved a little bit of success,” Mulvey told reporters on Wednesday.
“I think their record in the last 50 games is something like 10 wins – that’s patently not good enough to be challenging at the top end of the table
“I haven’t come here to finish second. It might take some time but we’re certainly going to work overtime to deliver the fans a great brand of football but also a team that’s winning.
“We want to really stand up on the map and put ourselves on the map. The only way to do that is to work very, very hard in the office and also on the field.
“The proof will be in the pudding.”
While admitting the Mariners don’t have the financial backing to compete with the likes of Sydney FC and Melbourne City, Mulvey insists the club will look to sign players which are the best fit for the club.
“I’m not concerned about anything else other than getting the best players here possible, with the right attitude,” Mulvey said.
“They’ve got to have the right attitude. They’ve got to be prepared to live on the coast, they’ve got to be prepared to buy into the club culture.
“We want to bring a culture here that is inclusive of everybody but also understands the community and what it’s like to wear the shirt and take pride in it.
“And make sure you practice to be the best player you can be. I want to bring young players that have got aspirations to be playing overseas. Come to the Mariners and show us what you can do in the A-League.
“It’s an opportunity for everybody – players young and old. I want to engage the local community and make sure everybody comes along on the ride with us.”
Mulvey will be a keen observer when the Mariners host Newcastle in the F3 Derby on Saturday night.
