Andrew Davies column: I’ve got my eyes set on coaching and management when the day comes to hang up my playing boots.
I’m doing my level two badges at the moment and my aim is to go right through and get every qualification I possibly can. That’s definitely the route I want to go down.
Some players don’t want to be anywhere near football when they retire. But it’s the only thing I understand because I’ve been involved in the game since I was young.
Maybe I’m mad even thinking about management but I can just imagine the buzz. Football is my life and I always want to be part of it.
I’ve always thought that managers who played the game are the best ones. They’ve been there and done it.
You need to know how to speak to players not just when things are going well but also during those tough periods.
Man management is massive for me. All players ask for is respect and honesty from a manager and being told straight.
If you’re not in the team, you want a manager who tells you why. As much as you may not like hearing it, that honesty is so important.
That’s what impresses me so much about Phil Parkinson. He is so good at the man management side.
I’ve a lot of respect for any manager and the stress they are under from a 24/7 job.
Even when the season’s finished, they are trying to get players in or sorting out contracts. There’s no let-up.
The job security’s not the best either because it’s all about results. It’s unbelievable how quickly managers are getting the sack.
But that comes from the pressure they are under, whether it’s from the fans and then the chairman.
Managers need time to put their ideas across and build the club how they want it.
Look at our gaffer. He had the time to bring players in and get rid of those he didn’t want and he’s doing an absolutely fantastic job.
But you need that understanding from the board. Look at Steve Gibson at Middlesbrough, he has always given his managers time to try and make a success of it.
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