No disrespect to Michael Appleton, but isn't his apparent appointment a bit of an anti-climax, what with all the names that were being bandied about over the past few weeks? What are your views on him being Pompey's new manager?
None of the names that were being mentioned stood out, all average championship level managers. Coppell is past it and would have walked after a few months cause he can't handle the pressure of management anymore and was Solskjaer ever a realistic target, having just won the league and getting champions league football he was never going to risk ruining his growing reputation in such an unpredictable league. I'm happy with Appleton, ok we as fans might not know too much about him, but within football he has a good reputation of being a decent coach who is going places. Give the guy a chance.
I know nothing about Michael Appleton's abilities but this is an extremely risky punt by the Portsmouth directors. In addition, it appears that the new manager will have very few funds available to strnegthen the squad and therefore i think think that a rookie manager is probably the rashest decision the new board of PFC have made. The sensible decision would have to have looked for someone who had experience and was capable of steadying the boat. Given that Pompey have two good coaches in Whittingham and Gray, it seems bizarre to appoint another as the manager. With regard to picking up knowledge from Hodgson, it is worth pointing out that he has only been a WBA for about 12 months. Prior to this, the Baggies were very much a yo-yo club and the failure to cement a regular Premiership place is suggestive that the coaching staff at The Hawthorns does not have a great record. I would suggest with glamorous names like OGS banded around, the appointment of Appleton must be a disappointment to the blue half of Hampshire. This reminds me somewhat of the calamitous appointment by Saints of Portliveet and Wotte who were similarly "respected coaches" brought in on the cheap and ultimately found to have great intentions but a woeful inability to understnad how football is played in the Championship. I must admit that as a Saints fan, I have been hugely impressed with David Lampitt's stewardship of your club but if the Appleton appointment comes off, it will be difficult not to vie this as anything other than a high risk strategy. It doesn't seem at all as informed as Cortese's poaching of Nigel Adkins from Scunthorpe.
My feeling is that Ian Thumwood has got it spot on. But...... we weren't at the interview so he must have said enough to convince the board and/or interview panel. I'm always happy with high risk strategies, well highly calculated risks anyway, so will be happy if MA turns out to have plans A, B & C on match day, and is able to get the team playing for 90 minutes rather than their traditional 45. But, and it's a big but really, I understand he has had 1 month's experience of management - apparently he is/was being groomed to eventually take over as manager for the baggies, but will that month have given him enough insight to manage at championship level? It is indeed a strange move by CSI. Shame about OGS though we were all inspired by that possibility.
You know what really is an anti-climax? The Return of the King film, particularly everything after the ride of the Rohirrim As for Michael Appleton, I dunno enough about him to comment. Hopefully it'll be a good appointment though.
It does seem like a bit of a left-field decision. Is he one of the 50 or so that applied, was he always on the wanted list, or is his appointment one of Hobson's choice because those at the top of the list were too expensive or turned us down? Will his appointment be as a result of a well thought out selection from a list of CVs and interviews or a 'that'll have to do' selection. CSI's performance up to now would suggest the former, but the way it has played out in the press suggests the latter. I honestly don't know what to think.
I think you Pompey fans have to get behind the guy - if he takes the job - and wish him well. He may well not have any managerial experience so far but that does not mean he cannot do the job. That having been said, I did say on this site last week that I thought CSI would go for the man who would do the job for the least amount of money. Still think that is the case.
Haven't even heard the man speak yet, so don't know how he comes across. As CSI appear to be impressed by him, his football knowledge must be sound, and he must have convinced them of his tactical ability. Time will tell, but if he is appointed, as appears likely, I'm sure the vast majority of Pompey fans will get behind him. Also hope that Guy & Stuart remain as coaches at F.P., as they have shown their passion and ability during the time they have been in charge.
(That having been said, I did say on this site last week that I thought CSI would go for the man who would do the job for the least amount of money. Still think that is the case. ) I totaly agree saintsalive. It could turn out to be be a very good buisness move but lets face it, unless Portsmouth get relegated then all people will say is "he has done a ok job"
That goes without saying regardless of who gets the job - even you! I'm now trying to picture SB3 singing "saintsalive's blue and white army"
