Former Leeds United striker David Healy could be in line for a return to the English game as manager of League Two side Grimsby Town.
Pete O’Rourke has reported that Healy, currently the boss of Northern Irish side Linfield, could be heading back to the UK for the first time since leaving Bury in 2013.
The Mariners are struggling in League Two, and Paul Hurst paid a price for that struggle with his job last month. They’re 21st in the division, without a win in the league since October 3rd. This weekend, they were held to a lacklustre draw by Slough in the FA Cup First Round.
Healy is one of the most successful managers in Northern Ireland – for the last eight years, he’s been in the dugout at the club he’s supported all his life. He’s won ten trophies, including five titles, and he’s been Manager of the Year four times.
During his illustrious playing career, he played for Man United, Rangers, Sunderland and Ipswich, amongst others. He’s perhaps best known for his time at Leeds United, where he scored 29 goals in 111 Championship appearances.
Healy is also well known for scoring the goal that ensured Northern Ireland beat England in 2005, the last meeting between the two sides.
The 44-year-old is on course for his sixth title in eight years in Northern Ireland, with the Blues currently top of the table, eight points clear of last season’s champions, Larne.
Writer’s View
There’s no doubting the job Healy has done at Linfield – prior to his arrival, they were five seasons without a league title. This season might only be 15 games deep, but they already look good value for yet another triumph.
Can he be tempted away from his boyhood club? At 44, he is still a young coach, perhaps the most decorated in Europe for his age. Is he ready to test himself across the water?
If he is, then the question has to be asked if Grimsby are the right fit for him. The Mariners are struggling in League Two again and are in danger of bouncing between the EFL and National League for a third time without the right appointment.
Given Healy’s trophies, Grimsby would be a big roll of the dice, without a doubt.
Founder and Editor-in-Chief at The Real EFL, Gary is a passionate Lincoln City fan with extensive content creation across the Championship and EFL. He also shares expert football betting tips.
