Fiji’s national football coach, Rob Sherman, has criticized the A-League’s visa regulations, asserting that these rules restrict valuable opportunities for talented players from Oceania, including Fijian prospect Thomas Dunn. Sherman explained that all players from Oceania count as overseas players in the A-League, thus occupying precious visa slots that clubs are hesitant to use on untested players, preferring experienced international professionals instead.
Dunn, who previously trialed with Sydney FC last year, was unable to secure a contract partly due to these limitations. Coach Sherman strongly advocates for changes to the current visa policy, proposing that the A-League could significantly enhance opportunities for young players from Fiji if clubs were allocated additional Oceania visa spots.
Sherman expressed optimism about the potential of Fijian players like Dunn, noting that with expanded opportunities, many could thrive in the A-League. As Fiji prepares for their upcoming semi-final in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers against New Zealand, Sherman emphasized the value of players currently based overseas, highlighting their access to modern training regimens and playing styles that could be beneficial for the team’s performance.
The selected squad will participate in three warm-up games against clubs including Auckland United and Wellington Phoenix, as they fine-tune their strategy for the crucial match on March 21 in Wellington. Sherman believes that this combination of trials and seasoned players is key to Fiji’s success on the international stage.
As the Bula Boys embark on this important journey, the hope remains that necessary changes in visa regulations will come about, allowing more young talents like Dunn to seize professional opportunities that can further elevate Fijian football’s status on the global stage. This transition could inspire the next generation of athletes, fostering a brighter future for sports in the region.
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