CLAYTON Zane took the Jets’ reins for 12 games in 2014 and chief executive Lawrie McKinna believes the former Socceroo’s “calming influence” will ensure the players remain focused until a new coach is appointed.
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Zane and Jets youth team assistant Paul Gomez conducted training on Friday, the first session since Scott Miller was sensationally sacked on Wednesday.
Miller’s axing was followed a day later by the termination of assistant Luciano Trani, avoiding the potential of a player boycott of training.
McKinna and recently-appointed football operations manager Joel Griffiths addressed the playing group before the session.
“I was very open with the players,” McKinna said.
“They were disappointed and asked a lot of question because they had a good relationship with Scott.
“But they are professionals as well and know we have to move on.”
Zane, Gomez and goalkeeping coach Jess Vanstrattan worked the squad for 90 minutes, with Chinese assistant Lee Qiang, who speaks limited English, on the periphery.
They will take charge for the clash against Edgeworth on Sunday and continue until new staff come in.
Zane guided the Jets to five wins, five losses and two draws when he took over from Gary van Egmond in January 2014.
“We have asked for help and he said yes,” McKinna said.
“His calming influence will be good. I know he is well respected, he is involved in the club with the youth team and is an all-round good guy.”
Zane and the players were off limits to the media on Friday.
McKinna said he had received more than 60 expressions of interest in the coaching position, including a couple of "big names” from overseas.
However, it appears as though the position is most likely to go to a coach with a knowledge of the A-League and Northern NSW landscape.
Former Jets assistant Mark Jones is understood to be among the leading contenders.
Former Manchester United striker Teddy Sheringham and ex-Jets captain Michael Bridges have been put forward as a package.
McKinna is in the process of putting together a shortlist of applicants for interviews.
“We don’t want it to drag on too long,” he said. “I will consult a few people before making a final decision. Hopefully we will be in position to make an announcement before the Western Sydney Wanderers game (September 24).”
The friendly against Edgeworth kicks off at Jack McLaughlan at 3pm.
