Academy role call for Neal
May 16 2007
EXCLUSIVE by Chris Bascombe, Liverpool Echo
PHIL NEAL has emerged as a surprise candidate to fill a key role at Liverpool’s Academy following the departure of Steve Heighway.
The most decorated player in Anfield history is being considered as an option as part of a number of appointments to replace the former Academy director, who retired following this year’s FA Youth Cup win.
Neal would act as a figurehead at The Academy, with additional coaching expertise also joining the club to oversee matters on the training pitch.
Manager Rafa Benitez has been assessing a variety of hopefuls since Heighway stepped down. New owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks agreed the Spanish boss must be part of the interview process.
Former midfielder Gary McAllister has also been linked with the post, but it’s understood he favours a return to football as part of a first team set-up.
Now Neal is viewed by many at Anfield as the ideal liaison between Melwood and Kirkby, particularly as he can command the respect of youngsters and their parents, as well as being dedicated to the Liverpool cause and fully immersed in the traditions of the club.
If his appointment is approved, his duties would include reporting to Benitez, as well as overseeing the coaching and scouting departments at The Academy.
There’s likely to be considerable change at the Kirkby facility in the aftermath of Heighway’s departure.
As Academy director, the former winger enjoyed virtually complete control over all operational matters, but it’s clear Benitez’s influence on how and what Liverpool’s teenagers are coached, as well as the recruitment process, will considerably grow.
Benitez does not want to run The Academy, but believes it’s essential his opinion carries far more weight on youth matters.
Neal joined Liverpool in 1974 as Bob Paisley’s first signing and went on to make 648 appearances. During an era of unprecedented success he won eight league titles, four European Cups, four League Cups and the UEFA Cup.
When he left the club in 1986 he moved into management at Bolton, Manchester City and Coventry.
Benitez is likely to make further appointments to implement fresh ideas to ensure more youngsters are prepared for the step-up from junior to senior football.
CLICKY - The Echo
May 16 2007
EXCLUSIVE by Chris Bascombe, Liverpool Echo
PHIL NEAL has emerged as a surprise candidate to fill a key role at Liverpool’s Academy following the departure of Steve Heighway.
The most decorated player in Anfield history is being considered as an option as part of a number of appointments to replace the former Academy director, who retired following this year’s FA Youth Cup win.
Neal would act as a figurehead at The Academy, with additional coaching expertise also joining the club to oversee matters on the training pitch.
Manager Rafa Benitez has been assessing a variety of hopefuls since Heighway stepped down. New owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks agreed the Spanish boss must be part of the interview process.
Former midfielder Gary McAllister has also been linked with the post, but it’s understood he favours a return to football as part of a first team set-up.
Now Neal is viewed by many at Anfield as the ideal liaison between Melwood and Kirkby, particularly as he can command the respect of youngsters and their parents, as well as being dedicated to the Liverpool cause and fully immersed in the traditions of the club.
If his appointment is approved, his duties would include reporting to Benitez, as well as overseeing the coaching and scouting departments at The Academy.
There’s likely to be considerable change at the Kirkby facility in the aftermath of Heighway’s departure.
As Academy director, the former winger enjoyed virtually complete control over all operational matters, but it’s clear Benitez’s influence on how and what Liverpool’s teenagers are coached, as well as the recruitment process, will considerably grow.
Benitez does not want to run The Academy, but believes it’s essential his opinion carries far more weight on youth matters.
Neal joined Liverpool in 1974 as Bob Paisley’s first signing and went on to make 648 appearances. During an era of unprecedented success he won eight league titles, four European Cups, four League Cups and the UEFA Cup.
When he left the club in 1986 he moved into management at Bolton, Manchester City and Coventry.
Benitez is likely to make further appointments to implement fresh ideas to ensure more youngsters are prepared for the step-up from junior to senior football.
CLICKY - The Echo
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