The softly-spoken McFarlane is an enigma. He has solely a small social media presence. He has established a profitable soccer teaching profession away from the limelight.
He grew up in Forest Hill, south London, and in his phrases, was a “failed footballer”, who moved into youth teaching.
Alongside part-time roles at Crystal Palace and Fulham‘s academy, McFarlane began teaching Lambeth Tigers.
There, an opportunity assembly formed his future.
There have been two boys from Norway on the membership who simply occurred to be the sons of former Tromso participant Thomas Hafstad.
“In 2012, I spent a year in London observing academies at different clubs in England,” Hafstad, who performed 260 video games for the northernmost soccer membership on the earth, informed BBC Sport.
“Instantly, I could see Calum was a very good coach. He listened to the players – young boys of 11 and 12 – and really understood how to work with them.”
Hafstad, now Tromso technical director, mentioned it was simple to see McFarlane “would be a great asset”.
“Even then, he had a strong knowledge of the game, but what stood out most was his man‑management,” he added.
Hafstad took McFarlane to Tromso, initially as as an Under-14s coach.
“He did very well in two years with us,” mentioned Hafstad.
“He moved up to coach the under‑19s and even took first-team sessions. At the time, we were in European competitions, so it was a strong period for the club.
“We’ve stayed in contact. I spent a couple of days at Chelsea‘s academy in November final 12 months, so we nonetheless have a detailed connection. I’ve no downside believing he may grow to be a high supervisor within the close to future.”