Kathmandu, April 28:

Nepal’s German coach Thomas Flath expressed optimism over the national football team here today.

Having worked with the national squad for only a week, Flath believed that the players had potential to grow. “The positive aspect of the players is that they have will to learn,” said Flath, who is contracted by the German Football Association for two months to look after the Nepali team.

“It’s too early to say anything about the team but I am happy to have a great support from the players, coaches, All Nepal Football Association (ANFA) and technical staffs,” added Flath, who had previously worked in Brazil, South Africa as well as for the Asian Football Confederation in different capacities.

Flath, who came here as part of the German FA’s assistance to ANFA, will lead the Nepali side in the AFC Challenge Cup (May 24-28, Cambodia) and SAFF Championship (June 3-14, Maldives and Sri Lanka). “I will not promise to bring great results in these events but I can assure you that we will bring about quality performance in the team,” said Flath.

Speaking of the strategy and format of the game, he said that he would not impose German style of play. “Of course, I will implement some aspects in the Nepali football culture but without disrupting the way these players have been playing.”

Flath, who led the Under-19 FC Schalke team to the German Cup, said that lack of regular matches was a huge setback for the Nepali team. “I would definitely like the players to adopt offensive play but the right coordination is must to success,” said Flath. “Every other player have a distinct quality and potential and we will work to improve on them. If a player succeeds in delivering to his potential, irrespective of the strength of their opponents, it would be a great success,” added the German coach.