Swindon Town boss Richie Wellens has given a fascinating insight into some of the challenges faced by managers in the lower leagues, as reported by the Swindon Advertiser.
Wellens was speaking about the number of players in his squad with a chequered past after it was revealed the FA rejected the registration of Dion Donohue in midweek.
Donohue signed a deal until the end of the season last week after initially joining the Robins on a month to month contract. His move to the County Ground came after having his contract with Mansfield terminated in September. The Stags took action following a disciplinary investigation into an alleged incident on a night out in the Nottinghamshire town with teammate Jacob Mellis in August.
Wellens explained the issue with the FA was down to timing and was confident the matter would be resolved, allowing the versatile midfielder to continue his career in Wiltshire with several other players in Wellens squad who have a chequered legal or injury history.
Players such as Luke McCormick, Lloyd Isgrove, and Zeki Fryers could arguably all be playing at a higher level had certain events not transpired earlier on in their professional careers.
Wellens admitted to the Advertiser he backed himself to manage players with a big personality and troubled past, stating he wouldn’t hesitate to sign similar players in January if they become available. He said: ‘I think I’m good at managing players that have had flaws earlier on in their careers or things haven’t quite gone their way.’
‘As long as they are a good human being and they’re professional, that’s fine.’
‘Some lads at this level quite like a night out, and they can be a bit of a Jack the lad off the pitch – you can have one or two of them, but it’s important we don’t get too many.’
‘Character is a big thing, but also personality.’
‘Paul Caddis and Anthony Grant are great examples – every time they step out onto a football pitch, you see their personalities.’
‘You can see they’re winners, and you can see they can manage games, so we also take that into account.’
Our View
An interesting insight into his managerial style from Wellens
Wellens desire to give players a second chance is admirable.
His Swindon side certainly has its fair share misfits and characters, but they are all playing for the former Oldham boss at the moment.
If he can keep them all his significant characters focussed, Wellens has a great opportunity in guiding the Robins back to League One this season.
