“Like Pim said yesterday, now in this moment there is no pressure for us. We have the first game in February, we hope we'll win and then we shall see,” he told au.fourfourtwo.com this morning before meeting with the FFA in Sydney.

“It will be very difficult against Qatar. But it's always difficult to start in a first World Cup game.

“We know the players in Europe but not here. We have a short time but we will see. It will be hard work.

“We saw how the fans reacted in 2006 to a not-knowing sport here in Australia. So it's important to stand behind the team.

“If it's not going well, okay, keep supporting the team. It's very important.”

February 6 at Telstra Dome will be the new coaching team's first official challenge: the inaugural World Cup qualifier for 2010 against the tricky Qatar.

Duut, a former Dutch league player, said he felt “excited and curious” in his new role which will encompass much scouting of both opposition and Aussie players

“I will be comparing players here in Australia to some in Europe and advising Pim to get the right players," he said.

“It has to be natural, I think. It's not so difficult. It's natural that you start talking with players, also famous players. Have a discussion about things you want and to work with you.”

Duut will return to Holland briefly for Christmas. From that point on, it will depend on today's roadmap meeting with the FFA as to what he will do. He may stay in Europe or return to Australia.

“Dutch people are similar to Australians, which helps I think," he added. "And I remember Graham Arnold from Holland - he was very famous.

"It's been a very positive feeling – from the people, from the press, the FFA board.

“But we have to win.”