Malpas: I had to be Richie’s phone a friend
MAURICE MALPAS knew he had to answer Inverness’ SOS after a late-night call from embattled boss Richie Foran.
The Scotland legend yesterday returned to Caley Thistle where he served as Terry Butcher’s No.2 between 2009 and 2013.
Foran was a stalwart under the pair but his first season in charge risks ending in relegation with the club five points adrift at the foot of the Premiership.
Malpas will be tasked with casting an expert coaching eye over their survival effort on a deal until the end of the season.
The 54 year-old said: “I got a phone call from Richie on Tuesday night. I spoke to him for a wee while and the chairman Kenny Cameron and that was it. Richie was wondering if I would come up as a friend and give them a hand. I decided I would go back to help him in any way I could.
“I’m going to see if I can offer any different ideas or viewpoints. One or two players might react differently.
“I have an affinity to the club – it was great for me – and I know the club and most of the players so it was a no-brainer.”
Malpas admits closing the gap will be a “massive challenge” but added: “Richie believes he has a good squad of players who can still get results.
“I know most of the players and their attitudes and he is right – they have got a chance.”