Joey’s lucky to net chance at Cod Army

WHEN clubs appoint managers who have been long-term riders on the managerial merrygo-round, as they often tend to do, they get plenty of stick.

So when they do something different, we can hardly complain, can we?

Fleetwood have certainly done something different by appointing Joey Barton as their new manager, starting on June 2 when his 13-month ban for betting on matches comes to an end.

Barton has no previous managerial experience, but that hasn’t bothered Cod Army chairman and friend Andy Pilley who reckons the 35-year-old will be a ‘huge asset’ to the club.

And to be fair to Pilley, he has form for giving rookie managers a chance, having previously taken the plunge on Micky Mellon and Graham Alexander.

It’s never easy to say if a manager will be successful or not – there are so many factors that come into play – but it is a great opportunity for Barton to take his first steps in management.

Fleetwood have shot up the divisions over the last decade and are ambitious to continue their rise up the ladder and climb to the Championship.

Under Uwe Rosler, they reached the League One play-offs last term, so there is no reason to think they can’t challenge again. This season has been a major disappointment and Rosler ultimately paid the price.

Credit to the experienced John Sheridan for coming in and guiding the Lancashire club to a safe mid-table position. He may well feel unlucky not to have earned a longer team deal.

How will the often controversial Barton get on next season? It’s one thing being a player and concentrating on your own game. Being the boss is a different kettle of fish.

Will he be able to relate to his players, get them on his side and keep them on his side? It’s going to be fascinating to find out.