Otago United has recruited a multinational task force for the New Zealand Football Championship, which starts on Sunday with an away game against Auckland City.
"This year's squad could include a couple of Germans, two English, two Irish and two Scots," coach Terry Phelan said.
"But I don't expect communication problems - the Germans can speak good English."
The banter illustrates Phelan's relaxed attitude which he hopes to spread through his side, combining hard work with a few laughs.
On his recent trip to the United Kingdom, where he gained a Uefa coaching licence, Phelan visited many professional clubs as he met up with old friends such as Roy Keane at Sunderland.
Keane started working towards his coaching badges four or five years ago and wishes he had begun earlier.
The volatile Irishman undertook Uefa's year-long pro-licence course which involved devising training plans for specific matches, psychology, under-standing contract negotiations and dealing with the media.
Phelan has trod the same route, albeit at a lower level, but appreciates the input and wants to use it in Otago.
"I want to instil confidence in our play and a more relaxed attitude, while still working hard at fitness and team organisation. It may not happen overnight but that is our target."
Once again Phelan faces a team-building programme, claiming that he only has four of his most experienced players returning this year.
John Chisholm's anticipated move to Auckland for a new job may not preclude the centreback from playing for Otago.
Negotiations are under way to try and retain his services.
Otago can sign six imports, but only four are allowed to go on the team card for any one game.
Of the imports to arrive so far, midfielder Robert Genschur (22) played at Oberliga level with SSV Markranstaedt near Leipzig, and will soon be joined by brother Martin (25).
From Lancaster City, Sean Grant (21) is another midfielder.
After a lay off from football, Grant is working hard to regain match fitness.
Despite a double leg break, Invercargill-based Barry Gardiner is determined to make United's starting XI.
The Scot is a busy midfielder in the style of former All White Buzzer McKay.
Blair Scoullar is another out of town player, now working in Cromwell.
The former All White midfielder should be a useful utility.
There is also a substantial group from Caversham, including defender Tim Horner, who has played with distinction in national league.
Englishman Dave Dugdale has impressed with his skills as a striker, and likewise attacker Tom Jackson could upset top defences with his explosive athleticism.
Roslyn's Sean Brand, named Soccersouth player of the year, could also be a surprise packet with his powerful front running.
Seasoned defence exists in goalkeeper Liam Little, recently included in the All Whites squad for Fiji, and former Mosgiel professional Colin Falvey.
Some very good youngsters may also give Phelan selection headaches.
As well as Technical's Tristan Prattley, defender Rhys Henderson was Caversham's player of the year, Seamus Ryder also impressed for that club, and from Mosgiel, Regan Coldicott and Morgan Day have potential, as does Roslyn's Tom Connor.
It is not only on the field that Phelan has recruited.
Dutchman Johan Koutstaal has joined United's coaching team, along with Malcolm Fleming to assist the head coach.
Otago United NZFC squad
Liam Little, Callum Flaws, Rhys Henderson, Tim Horner, Mike Smith, Colin Falvey, Robbie Deeley, Blair Scoullar, Andy Coburn, Dave Dugdale, Tom Jackson, Aaron Burgess, Sean Brand, Barry Gardiner, Tom Connor, Seamus Ryder, Regan Coldicott, Morgan Day, Tristan Prattley.
Triallists: Robert Genschur, Martin Genschur, Sean Grant.
