Rajesh Patel says no locals are qualified to replace outgoing national coach Christophe Gamel.

Fiji Football Association president brushed aside comments by critics on social media questioning why Fiji FA does not appoint a local for the head coach position.

This was after Patel revealed the new coach would come from Europe.

Former school teacher Ravinesh Kumar is the only A-licence accredited coach.

“People misinterpreted the whole thing,” Patel said.

“The reason we want a coach from Europe is to continue the pattern set by Gamel.

“Local coaches are not fully qualified as pro coaches yet.

“Kumar is the only one that has finished his A-licence and is accredited.

“We would love to see that our professional coach will come from Europe and our local coaches will understudy him.

“We have received applications already and Gamel has given us a few references. There’s interest from Australia and Serbia.

“Serbian FA is also interested in having one of their coaches to come and coach in Fiji too.”

Edited by Osea Bola

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