This year will be a good year for Fiji football, says Vodafone national coach, Christophe Gamel.

Gamel told SUNsports that he is working hard to put in place games and strategies to propel the standard of the game further.

Speaking from his officer at the Fiji FA Academy in Ba, he says while plans look good, getting the desired result will be a tough battle.

“It can be very hard to get people to accept change,” the French national said.

“To move forward in life, we have to let go of things that can pull us back and we have to embrace the challenges ahead of us and move with it.

“I am not afraid to talk about the things that are on my heart. Especially when I want to share my vision and goals about where I think Fiji soccer should be.”

“There is so much talent out there. There is so much potential players but it is us at the leadership level who should work hard to support every level in this country.”

Gamel recently returned from his 10-day break in France and also held discussions with other national teams and people who are interested in helping the sport.

“I met with the coach of the Cuban national team. I want that kind of exposure for the national side. They need top level exposure so that they can know more about their strengths and weaknesses.”

The national coach also believes that the national women’s soccer team can do much better than where they’re at right now.

“There is not much competition for women’s soccer in Fiji. But the current national side is full of talent and scope. Given the right environment the women actually have a better chance of making it to the World Cup before the men’s side.

“That’s how much confidence I have in the women’s team. Fiji is very lucky to have such depth in women’s soccer.”

Edited by Leone Cabenatabua

Feedback:  lusi.banuve@fijisun.com.fj