After securing a two-year contract as Brisbane Roar's head coach, Ruben Zadkovich insists the club can become a powerhouse their long-suffering fans can be proud of.
The Roar will play their final game of the A-League Men season on Friday night at Suncorp Stadium against Adelaide United.
The result will have no impact on the finals, with the Roar in eighth position on 29 points and Adelaide a further point back and with a game in hand to play against Central Coast.
Former Socceroo Zadkovich, previously in charge at Perth Glory, has held Brisbane together as acting head coach during a tumultuous period.
Season-starting coach Ross Aloisi left the club late last year, and his assistant Luciano Trani lasted just one game in the top job.
Trani's replacement, Ben Cahn, took extended sick leave before formally resigning last week.
In his final pre-game press conference of the year, and his first as full-time head coach, Zadkovich addressed the reality of missing the finals.
"I would be lying if I said that the football department and the playing group weren't disappointed that we are not playing finals," he said.
"We are aware that we didn't do enough. That's the reality of the situation - whether it be through change or turmoil or whatever reason - we have fallen short.
"There are some clear areas that we need to improve if we are going to play finals football, but just being results-driven is a poor way to go about your business when you are trying to build something."
Zadkovich said he wanted to create a sustainable club with the right footballing philosophy, people and environment.
"There is a fantastic playing squad there that still needs some additions and smart recruitment," he said.
"There is a fantastic staff lineup and a lot of people behind the scenes at the club all pulling in the same direction.
"I am very optimistic about what is to come.
"We have created a really dynamic group of minds and the right kind of characters.
"We want to lead by example with how hard we work and how we carry ourselves - that will drive the culture."
"I have witnessed what it is like at Suncorp Stadium when it is full. The Brisbane fans are loyal and passionate and we just need to take responsibility as a football department and play in a way that engages those fans."
The Roar announced the re-signing of goalkeeper Macklin Freke on a two-year deal.
The 25-year-old has kept eight clean sheets in 44 appearances for the club.
Australian Associated Press
