SWANS SEARCH FOR ALLEN’S SUCCESSOR
SWANSEA City’s hunt for a new sporting director is well under way.
Mark Allen left the Swans last month after just eight months in the role, with the Welshman being promoted from the position of academy director at the club in August.
It’s understood there were significant behind-the-scenes disagreements between Allen and chief executive Julian Winter.
Former Man City and Rangers chief Allen addressed his exit ahead of the Swans’ Championship clash with Nottingham Forest last Saturday.
“Having spent the last 15 months or so aligning the football methodology and operations across the club from academy to first team, and establishing a strong foundation on which to build, I feel it is the appropriate time in the project to pass the baton on,” he said.
“I have extremely enjoyed my time at the club and have had the privilege to work alongside some excellent football staff.
“I wish Russell Martin and the players the best of luck moving forward and nothing would give me greater pleasure than seeing Swansea City back in the Premier League for the loyal and magnificent fan base, and I wish the club every success in this pursuit.”
The club have advertised the post to find Allen’s replacement via a recruitment agency and are hopeful of announcing an appointment in the near future. Russell Martin worked in tandem with Allen since he joined the club from MK Dons last summer, particularly when it came to recruitment.
Nevertheless, the head coach is confident that Swansea will still be able to land their preferred targets in the coming months despite Allen’s exit. However, the void now required to fill is a major one.
Allen oversaw all football operations at the club and has played a pivotal role in signings, particularly those of players including Michael Obafemi and Nathanael Ogbeta.
It came after he spent seven months spearheading operational matters in the club’s youth system, which is now closely aligned to the methods of the first team.
In simple terms, it’s a crucial role that needs filling. Following what has been a transitional season, the Swans are hoping to challenge for promotion next term. A productive summer transfer window will be key to solidifying the Swans’ aspirations of forcing their way into the top six during the 2022-23 campaign.
Due to the World Cup in Qatar later this year, the forthcoming season has been brought forward to begin in late July, meaning pre-season starts earlier than usual. Time is precious, to say the least.
In a market that will no doubt see at least one key asset sold while several others will be allowed to move on, Swansea have yet another huge summer ahead of them. ■ Wales star gets good news on cancer: page 46