All Whites players are singing the praises of new coach Anthony Hudson.

New Zealand are preparing in Doha for their next week's international friendly against Uzbekistan, the first time the squad has been under Hudson's control.

Midfielder Chris James says the new coach is a breath of fresh air and brings a higher level of professionalism.

He says the squad has a better understanding of what they're doing and why they're doing it which is a huge difference to past experiences.

James says the intensity of trainings has been through the roof with players wanting to impress the gaffer.