WARNE PLAYING IT BY BOOK

ROTHERHAM boss Paul Warne hopes inspiration from Pep Guardiola’s coaching manual could help him mastermind one of the greatest-ever FA Cup shocks.

Warne’s Championship Millers are huge underdogs to upset defending Premier League champions City at the Etihad today.

But even though Warne (left) has no illusions about the “massive” challenge his team face, the 45-year-old has dared to dream – thanks to Pep’s blueprint for success.

“It’s hugely impressive how he manages egos,” said Warne, who is proud of his own relationship-based leadership model at the New York Stadium.

Respect

“That’s why I’ve got the upmost respect for him. I’ve read a few of the books written on him.

“He’s an unbelievable coach, but he took time out of football to improve himself as a human being. The biggest skill set he’s got, which I think a lot of people underestimate, is keeping the players happy.

“I know how hard that is even at my level.

“I can have one of my young pros whose not happy because he’s not getting involved, but how do you keep Jesus or Mahrez happy? I’d love to talk to him about that.”

Warne has always been a big admirer of Guardiola, especially after reading the book Barca which documents the Spaniard’s club record 14 trophies at the Nou Camp.