All Whites skipper Ryan Nelsen failed to make his debut for his new English Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur after being named on the bench in their goalless draw with Liverpool.
The 34-year-old central defender, who moved last week to the London club after being released by Blackburn Rovers after seven years at the Lancashire club, was an unused substitute in the match at Anfield on Monday night (Tuesday NZT).
The 0-0 draw sees Spurs maintain their third position on the table.
Nelsen’s next chance to make his debut for his new club comes at White Hart Lane on Sunday (NZT) when they host Newcastle.