How Lee’s management proved the Wright stuff
Man-management is a huge part of the modern game – and is considered a strength of Sunderland’s new head coach, Lee Johnson.
Johnson developed a strong rapport with his playing squad during his time at former club Bristol City, as he established the Robins in the top half of the Championship.
Pa r t o f h i s s qu a d at Ashton Gate for the vast majority of his reign was Bailey Wright, with the duo shari n g a g reat d ea l o f mutu a l respect.
And as the pair reunite at the Stadium of Light, it’s worth revisiting a story that Johnson recently told on his Linkedin page – which tells fans everything they need to know about his approach to man-management.
Johnson wrote: “The power of introduction is a great leadership and inspirational technique/tool to use.
"H e re i s a n exa m p l e o f how I have used this technique i n my management style.
"Bailey Wright was such a fantastic captain for me. B a i l ey i s a s go o d a s i t get s on a human level, as well as being a brilliant footballer. One day I realised I hadn’t told him enough how much I value his contribution.
"Ian Wright was coming i n to th e tra i n i n g g rou n d that day. I asked Ian if I could introduce him to Bailey. Ian wa s a id o l fo r B a i l ey a n d on introduction, my words were…
“Ian, this is Bailey Wright, he is a warrior, leader, a top centre-half and the best captain I’ve ever had. However, m o re i m p o r ta ntl y, h e i s a fantastic person!
"Instantly, Bailey, Ian and I all felt good!”