....for Slade to step down. He's done his job. If he leaves now then his reputation will be in tact. He has shorn the squad as per instructions & has created a team capable of getting in the Top Six. We are still only Five Points off a play-off place. We will not be relegated (as some feared) and are in a good position, with a fine squad for a now manager to 'kick on'. Given the position we are in, an inexperienced manager (Bellers) would NOT be a risk. At worst we will end up mid-table, which, to be honest is where we will end up anyway under Slade. We cannot sign any new players so any new manager will know what he has to work with. Bellemy still has close links with the club & will unite the squad, the fans and everyone associated with the club. Shove an experienced guy in with him as DOF & lets all enjoy the rest of the season.
I was discussing this with my lad after Saturday. (Incidentally what hold have Rotherham got over us? 2 red card, 2 og's and 2 terrible refs?) Bellamy may not have managerial experience but he wouldn't be alone in being pitched into that position. Bellamy would fire up the players, make them work harder in training, make them fight for the shirt and play more attractive attacking football, and create a bond between the fans. Whilst I don't agree we have a fine squad - there is just not enough pace and quality in midfield and up front - but with some overdue luck, City could still be in with a shout for top 6. As you say Whiffle, it is not a risk, there is nothing to lose but IMO plenty to gain. I just sadly cannot see it happening, and we will be left with Slade for the rest of the campaign.
The "new broom" factor could make all the difference to what has become a stale management setup at the club. Bellamy would be a big risk in as much as he would probably shake the tree beyond it's breaking point, but even then it is very unlikely we would be playing division 1 competition next season. You could argue we're actually playing that standard of football in the Championship under Slade right now. I think the OP has got it dead right about Slade's position and future prospects. If he gave it up of his own volition he could benefit from his time here because he wont be after June. This issue about Bellers with a Director of Football advising him (if he'll take the advice that is!) hasn't gone away and reared it's head again on Saturday. It was mentioned in passing to me that the previous rumours about a Bellers/Dave Jones combo weren't just rumours - there was far more substance to the reports than that.
Depends on the deal being struck - he could walk away with a punch in the wallet if all parties agreed that was the best thing. He wouldn't lose face and also get paid up - it would be loose change for Tan.
While understanding the train of thought in terms that a Bellamy appointment would create a positive response amongst the fans and possibly energise the players, I would have concerns owith his abilities as a man manager and tactician being totally unproven. That doesn't mean I don't see him as a City manager in the future, simply that it would be a very big gamble to place him in this position now, even with a director of football by his side. A poor outcome could ruin his future and leave us in a difficult position again. If Slade is to go, and I agree that is probably best for all, I would like to see someone of the calibre and proven Championship ability of Nigel Pearson. However, i don't think any of this will happen until the summer - whichever way we go.
I agree with BFB and always thought that Russ will see us through until the summer. I think we are all missing a point here guys....You can bring in who you want but things will NOT change until we get some some real football people in at levels within the club.. Currently we have people who have business acumen and who may have been excellent in supporting VTs many interests over the years but unfortunately..... not in football, they simply have no understanding of clubs, supporters, footballers or their agents and certainly no experience in working with all these factors in order to become successful. We simply have people who possibly have bullied and dictated their way to success and have no concept on how to engage with or work with their stakeholders. Dont shoot the messenger guys although Im not happy with our current manager, he must be absolutely going mental with what is going on behind the scenes and frustrated with the management structure he has to work with. All in all he,s only as good as the support from his "team" behind the scenes? PS I cant wait to hear Russel Slades side of the story when he finally leaves........ I dont think Mr Tans money will keep this bird from singing???
