Rudan was offered the Jets’ head coaching role in 2015 following the sacking of Phil Stubbins, with the club ultimately opting for Scott Miller.

The former Sydney FC defender was an emerging coach in 2015 after success with Sydney United in the NSW NPL before taking up a role with the Australia Under-20’s set-up in 2016. He has also had media commitments with Fox Sports as part of his workload.

Rudan joins Wellington at a difficult time for the club, having finished last season in ninth and with speculation hanging over their heads about their future, following talks of a merger with an expansion club.

Similarly, the Jets had won the wooden spoon before their offer to Rudan in 2015 and had endured years of underachievement.

“I don’t know what you were doing in 2015 or what your situation was, but things change,” Rudan said.

“Variables change, situations change. Coaching has always been a passion and drive of mine.

“Back then I’ve got my own reasons why I knocked that back. I’m not going to go into that. When this opportunity came up there was a lot more upside to it.”

Mark Rudan and Phoenix general manager David Dome speak at Wednesday's announcement

Rudan said Wellington had a thirst for change amid their recent challenges, which is what appealed to him.

The former centreback successfully changed the playing culture at Sydney United, who went from ninth spot to champions in his first season in charge and will be hoping for something similar at Westpac Stadium.

“It was good to speak to the people involved in the football club, knowing the questions I asked about the football club were answered in a certain way, where they want to be challenged,” he said.

“There’s a clear desire from everyone involved at the football club that change needs to happen.

“They want to change, they want a fresh start. They’re going to get that.

“It appealed to me on many fronts. I need to bring in at least 10 players to this football club. It makes it a lot easier.

“Some coaches don’t have that ability, you’ve got what you’ve got. I’ve got the ability to bring half a squad.

“Knowing where the club has been the last few years and knowing they want to be successful as much as I do. All those reasons are very important.”