New Zealand Football has defended itself from criticism over its handling of the All Whites captain Ryan Nelsen's official retirement.
There was uncertainty surrounding Nelsen's future with the national side following the 35-year-old's decision two weeks ago to take on the head coaching role at the North American Major League Soccer side Toronto FC and a perceived lack of communication by NZ Football.
Nelsen's now negotiated an early exit from his Premier League team Queen's Park Rangers and begins working his new job in a full-time capacity from February the 1st.
The New Zealand Football chairman Frank Van Hattum says Nelsen had to work through those issues so they had to be patient.
