An article from pastyman, from a comment shared in the forum, giving some views on Appy whatever happens next.
With much speculation, but nothing telling us either way what is happening with Appy, no one really knows what to think!
This comment, from pastyman in the forum made in response to various comments, made for good reading so it is being share front page too…
I don’t necessarily disagree or agree on this one – too many possibilities for me.
We’ve never been in a position whereby Appy could prove what a good manager he could be.
There is certainly potential there as he can clearly persuade players that they should sign for his team even in the most difficult times as plenty could have jumped ship between pre-season and the end of the transfer window – monthly contracts work both ways! However, a majority of substitutions were forced on Appy due to injuries or match fitness rather than being made with intent to change things tactically and, even when chasing games and with forwards on the bench, he hasn’t always made the change. Likewise, formations have often been selected based on who is actually available to play!
Having no resources to speak of can be seen as hampering the manager in the job he has to do, however, it can also be used as a smokescreen to hide any tactical shortcomings. Maybe long enough for someone to identify that he has good man-management skills and hiring him on that basis without realising the tactical side of management needs more development.
That said, I think Appy really does appreciate the dedication of the fans, especially in such dire circumstances and, despite having great support from staff working with me, I too have “jumped ship” in the past on receipt of a better offer. My family need to be provided for above anything else so, although generally a loyal employee, I too have been tempted enough to go elsewhere.
I have also been tempted to move on when I’ve seen the ‘writing on the wall’ in terms of working for a company disintegrating before my very eyes. Let’s not kid ourselves here – the club hasn’t had any takeover finalised yet and those most likely to know how that is going are those closest to the club.
Personally? I’ve always liked Appy and would be sad to see him go but I can’t honestly say he will make a good manager here or anywhere else as I’ve yet to see him actually manage a team. So far, circumstances have only really allowed him to assemble one and then let the gods decide who plays when and where and for how long.
Whatever happens, I’d say one thing – At least he was here when we needed him. Some weren’t and others were here long after they should have been and rather than helping the club, hindered it to the point that it very nearly didn’t recover.
Written by pastyman, and originally posted in this forum thread – Appy Staying – here.
The views within this article are the views of the individual who wrote and submitted this piece, sometimes solely theirs. They are not necessarily shared by the Vital Pompey Site Journalists.
Click here to make your prediction: Pompey v Brentford.
Click here to make your prediction: Bury v Pompey.
Vital Pompey on: Vital Pompey on:
