Is it bad to take some satisfaction from WBA's failures? The grass is always greener. Was it really worth walking away from the club that gave you your chance after less than a season? Was it really worth repaying that faith by taking the assistant coach and captain for good measure? Was it Val?
Because the two full time managers we've had this season have managed a single win between them. I would have Ismael back in a heartbeat.
I said this the other day. If they're interested in building bridges and making a success of their time at Oakwell, it's a no brainer. I'd be back onside, 100%. And I'd sooner go down on a sinking ship with Val at the helm. His enthusiasm is infectious and we know he won't ever settle for anything less than 110% from the players. Sorry, Grove Street**
Not just Val. All those that followed. But I guess 99.9% of us would do the same in our own line of work.
Had the same discussion with my dad and those sat around me... all agreed theyd have him back at the drop of a hat.. not sure he'd get us out of this situation.. but he'd stand us in good stead for the battles at league 1 level next year!
Was it really any different from us releasing a player after a year? Remember Val didn't quit. He was sold Also remember the lack of ambition shown by our owners in both transfer windows. Our owners didn't make any attempt to repay his efforts last season with reinforcements. In fact a player they had promised we had the money to sign was sent back across the pond.
Val played the five subs rule to a T last season. Such an intense, in your face style couldn't be sustained with 3 subs and I think his tactics were rumbled before the end of last season. Would I have him back? More to the point would he come back? I somehow doubt he'd come back.