Whether that gap can be closed remains to be seen. An investment in long-term youth development, a meticulous training strategy built by coaching guru Les Reed, and a scouting system that Billy Beane would be proud of, combine with a value-driven culture fostered by former-NHL-coach-turned-club-chairman Ralph Krueger to create an environment that is rare for a Premier League team: one where optimism and strategy have been fused, and every department is encouraged to innovate in search of tiny competitive edges that can close the gap between Southampton and the petrodollar-fueled super clubs above. That conviction is not ill-placed, nor is it built on alchemy. A small terrier of a club who have convinced themselves of their ability to run with the big dogs. Southampton FC have been one of English football’s most romantic narratives in 2014. “The Germans bombed the crap out of us during the war,” he snorted, “we’ve never really recovered.”ĭespite that, it is impossible not to be charmed by the town. Upon my arrival, one of the club’s ground staff quickly set me straight. I had never visited Southampton before making “The Southampton Way.” I had always mentally pictured the city as a quaint Southern port. Here’s what he had to say about the trip to Southampton:
Bennett also wrote about the experience for NBC SportsWorld. In this edition of “PL Download,” Roger Bennett of “Men in Blazers” fame visits the well-run south England club and spends time with coaches, players and executives to find out more about the Southampton Way. Yet thanks to an extremely well run youth academy, a passionate fan base and a smart vision that pervades all levels of the club, the Saints continue to thrive despite their underdog status. Known as a “selling club” that operates on a relatively modest budget, Southampton FC isn’t a side that should be competing with the heavyweights in England.
0 kommentar(er)
