Thistle KB has led Ian to go for top role
SIMON DONNELLY believes Ian Maxwell would be the ideal fit as SFA chief after missing out on the manager’s job at Partick Thistle.
Maxwell was keen on being Jags gaffer in 2011 before Jackie McNamara took charge alongside assistant Donnelly.
He became general manager at Firhill instead then stepped up to become managing director three years later.
The 42-year-old has now applied to succeed Stewart Regan in the SFA hotseat after stepping down from his role on the SFA board to avoid a conflict of interest.
Donnelly was a team-mate of Maxwell’s in his playing days and claims he would be a huge hit at Hampden if handed the job.
The former Celtic star said: “I played with Ian first and foremost – at Queens Park, St Johnstone and Partick.
“When he was dinking balls into my feet I only ever saw him as a football player rather than a chief executive.
“But he got a chance at Thistle to be the general manager. I think he was actually striving for the manager’s job at the time!
“Jackie was getting it but he was very keen.
“He got a different role instead and has taken to it really well. And he’s at the point now where he is being considered for the SFA so good luck to him.
“He is a good lad and I wish him well.
“It helps to have football guys in those positions.”
Donnelly is convinced should Maxwell land the job he would bring fresh ideas and innovation.
He said: “Ian has grown into the role. He has been working hard and I’ve been at Partick a couple of times over the years.
“They have really developed the club.
“He has good experience behind him if he takes the SFA role. Ian maybe is the ideal candidate.”