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Gareth Fullerton

Ex-Linfield striker Paul Munster believes anything is possible as he eyes up success with Vanuatu

Paul Munster believes anything is possible as he settles into life in the Pacific Islands.

The former Linfield striker was recently appointed manager of Vanuatu.

It is the latest step on Munster's global football odyssey that has seen him taken him to Canada, Sweden, Germany, the Czech Republic and recently India where he won two trophies in seven months with I-League champions Minerva Punjab FC.

Speaking to Sky Sports, the 37-year-old admits life in the Pacific Islands is slightly more sedate than the "chaos" of India.

But he insists his appetite for success shows no signs of relenting.

"India was chaos with the traffic and cows walking around freely as they are sacred. I loved my time there," he said.

Munster during a training session (@Munster_Coach Twitter)

"If you can live in India you can live anywhere!"

Ex-Linfield FC striker Paul Munster appointed national coach of Vanuatu  

Munster has taken the reins of the Vanuatu senior team, as well as the Under 23 and U20 squads.

Targets on the former striker's radar include qualifying for the 2020 Olympic Games, and reaching the World Cup finals in seven years' time.

Do you know an Irish Premiership SuperFan worthy of an award?  

"All players will get a chance if they impress. I've noticed the intensity is higher when they see you watching the games," he added.

"I believe it's achievable to reach a major finals. Qatar is more difficult but in 2026 two will go through. Once you get that confidence flowing through a team anything is possible."

The Road to Qatar 2022 is daunting, with Vanuatu having to progress through two qualifying rounds and then facing African opposition in a play-off.

Despite the sizeable obstacles in their way, Munster says history dictates that surprise do happen in football.

"Look at Manchester United, look at Leicester winning the Premier League. Football is 11 v 11. On the field, I know what I want but it's off the pitch we need to get right," he said.

Former Irish League striker Paul Munster making a name for himself in India  

He added: "I've started double training sessions and gym time to help with the professional mindset and I speak to the groundsman to make sure the grass is cut right.

"Some of the lads are new to this programme but this is what's required to embrace the levels we're expecting. They have all taken the diet and training plan on board when they go back to their clubs."

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