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Belgian Eric Abrams replaces Berger at FFA

24th September, 2014
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The man who mentored English Premier League superstars Vincent Kompany and Eden Hazard will be responsible for helping unearth Australia’s next crop of soccer stars.

The noted Belgian youth coach was on Wednesday appointed Football Federation Australia’s new technical director, replacing Dutchman Han Berger.

Abrams played a key role in developing many of Belgium’s current ‘golden generation’ during his 11-year tenure in the youth system.

In that time he guided the likes of Manchester City captain Kompany, Chelsea star Hazard, Everton striker Romulu Lukaku and Tottenham’s Jan Vertonghen – all of whom featured in this year’s World Cup.

Abrams said he wasn’t out to “make a copy” of his Belgian team in his new role but would prioritise talent scouting to grow Australia’s next generation of elite players.

“If we want to progress our football for the future … we need to instil a very good talent identification system,” he said.

“And (then) to give all the chances to these talented players.

“Then I think there will be a solution for the future of Australian football.”

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His arrival and Berger’s departure marks the end of a Dutch-inspired era at the FFA.

During Berger’s tenure, Pim Verbeek coached the Socceroos, Jan Versleijen was Australia’s national youth coach and Hesterine De Reus presided over the Maltidas.

Berger was preceded by another Dutchman in Rob Baan, a former Holland assistant coach who was in charge when countryman Guus Hiddink led Australia to the 2006 World Cup.

Abrams will work under a new FFA structure, with Luke Casserly appointed head of national performance.

He will head the elite pathway and youth development structures, assist with coach education and guide programs for players up to the age of 16.

Socceroos coach Ange Postecoglou will oversee all underage and senior national men’s teams, while newly-appointed Matildas coach Alen Stajcic will head up the women’s equivalents.

Abrams said he had only spoken to Postecoglou briefly but appreciated his low key style.

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“He’s low profile. He’s a team player,” he said.

“That’s what I’ve until now discovered with Ange.”

Abrams will start work once his Australian visa requirements have been finalised.

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