itsAKDB
Member
- Joined
- Aug 16, 2018
- Messages
- 264
- Reaction score
- 215
- Points
- 43
"Hello, Kevin? Kevin is that you? It's me, John. Listen, I've got a bit of an opportunity for you in the south of France if you're interested?
I know things didn't really work out in Southport but I've got a **** of a project on here and I think you'd be perfect for it. Don't worry about the language, I've got it all under control, you know me Kev! Look, get yourself on a plane, get out here and have a look around, meet the staff and see what you think. Can't say fairer than that can you? Yeah? Brilliant! I knew you'd be up for it. I'll let John know you'll be over sometime this week."
So here I am. Shaking hands with John Still and John Martin, about to take over as Montpellier manager. Never saw myself managing abroad but France isn't too far from good old Sheffield, and not only that but the two Johns were really carving out a little piece of England in Montpellier. I'm not sure what it was about the 25 degree weather and the exceptional wine that attracted them here in the first place, but as soon as John Martin bought the club he started reshaping from top to bottom. I knew the two Johns well from my Bolton days, we'd met several times at functions and awards dinners, you know, wherever the money was. The fact that my only managerial experience was a brief stint at Southport that didn't really go to plan for anyone didn't seem to put them off. I suppose it's the old adage; It's not what you know, it's who you know.
"Basically, what we're after is a good strong core of English lads with a bit of French talent sprinkled in if needs be. I've got a few lads on the way already, who haven't quite hit the ground running at their clubs or have been in a bit of trouble or what-have-you. Fixer-uppers you know? But I'm sure with your guidance we can put together a team that can challenge for Europe here. Brexit or no ****** Brexit. Sound alright Kev? I'll let you get yourself acquainted with the place and I'll speak to you soon. Cheers!"
After that I was on my own, rattling around this vineyard estate they'd put me up in with just a few cases of unoaked Chardonnay for company. All I had to go on was a brief e-mail I'd gotten on signing the contract which said:
- Sign as many British players as you can
- Revive careers of former internationals or forgotten wonderkids
- Sign french youth to sell on at a profit
- Keep all the English boys happy
So I suppose that was my mission statement. Seemed simple enough. But as they say in Montpellier, 'La vie est trop courte pour boire du mauvais vin.' Which I think is something about drinking wine, I don't know I don't speak French. I'll let you know if I find out. Next time I might even meet the squad.
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