NLP Dugout boys could make the difference

Iam always interested to read what people are saying about the paper on a Sunday. Whether it’s negative or positive feedback, Twitter takes up a fair bit of my time... and it drives the wife mad! The big talking point last week – and thankfully it was something positive – was Matt Badcock’s centre spread interview with Lincoln City boss Danny Cowley. Matt had travelled up to Sincil Bank and spoke to Cowley before his side’s home fixture with Wrexham, where he was invited into the gaffer’s office. It was an eye-opening experience and a window into the world of one of Non-League’s most highly-rated managers.

What impressed Matt so much was the level of detail Cowley went into, not just in his thoughtful answers during the interview, but the hours of analysis he pores over in order to bring out the best in his side. I discussed this again with Matt when we were putting our thoughts down on paper for our ‘Half-Term’ report spread on pages 24-25, and he’s convinced this season’s National League title will be so intense and competitive because of the managers who are leading the promotion charge.

Cowley has got Lincoln believing again. The fans can see how good an operator he is. But if you look at the other clubs in the top five – Tranmere, Forest Green Rovers, Dagenham and Barrow, there is an embarrassment of riches in terms of managerial talent. Micky Mellon has won this league before with Fleetwood and is putting together a side laced with players who have achieved the same feat. Barrow’s Paul Cox has done it with Mansfield, as has John Still at Dagenham. Meanwhile, Mark Cooper may well have the cash, but his no-nonsense approach and eye for a player makes him a fearsome opponent who won’t suffer fools in the changing room.

Managers don’t always get the credit they deserve. We are quick to heap praise on players when things are going well, and even quicker to bring out the knives for the bosses when they start to go wrong. But whoever wins the National League this year will do so because of the hard work and dedication of their manager. So forget the boots, it’s all about the suits...