WOMEN TO BOSS IT
Redfearn expects female in EFL real soon
WHEN Maurizio Sarri’s reign at Chelsea came to an end there was support from some for the club’s successful women’s team boss Emma Hayes to succeed him.
That was largely met with howls of derision – a woman taking charge of a Premier League club? No chance.
Fast forward three years and following Hayes’ continued ability to hoover up the silverware and Sarina Wiegman’s outstanding leadership of England’s Lionesses, it’s now not a case of if but when a female takes charge of one of the 92 league clubs.
“It’s nailed on,” maintains former Leeds United boss
Neil Redfearn (right) who is currently in charge of Sheffield United women.
“For me, Sarina Wiegman is like no other women’s manager I have known. There is a ■ by ruthless element to her which is not portrayed in her normal everyday manner.
“But already in her time as England head coach she’s made some massive, brave decisions.
“She’s left Steph Houghton out who has been a mainstay for England over the years. She substitutes Ellen White quite frequently. Who would have thought we could do without Ellen over the whole game?
“You’ve got Alessia Russo who picks up the baton, comes on and is just as good. Putting Millie Bright up front when struggling against Spain.
“She’s inventive, she’s innovative. I’ve managed in the women’s game for a long time and I’ve never seen some of the things that she does. “The game is evolving. It’s becoming a more creative environment. It has got quicker, it’s more tactically aware. It’s evolving and in such a way where the skills Wiegman has got would suit the men’s game. Emma Hayes is also someone who has proved she can think outside the box.
“It won’t be long before a club in the top four leagues takes the plunge on a woman head coach.”
Several years ago, Grimsby spoke about employing ex-England women’s boss Hope Powell, while there were discreet enquiries made by AFC Wimbledon to appoint Hayes which sparked a damning response from the queen of Stamford Bridge.
She maintained that the move was a downward step for someone used to pitting her wits in Europe.
Redfearn agreed, adding: “Regarding Emma there isn’t really a side in this country to touch her Chelsea.
“No disrespect to AFC Wimbledon but she’s probably in a better place.”