GRAHAM Alexander acknowledges that he will have to stay vigilant just as much as the players to gain an advantage over Accrington this afternoon.
As City faces off against seventh-placed Stanley with the determination to break their four-game league losing streak, the new manager will be engrossed in his own battle on the touchline.
John Coleman is undeniably Mr. Accrington, having accumulated over 1,000 games and two decades in charge during two spells in east Lancashire.
Currently the second longest-serving manager in the domestic professional game since returning to the club in September 2014, following a previous 13-year stint steering them from part-time football back into the EFL, Coleman remains fiercely competitive, alongside his long-time lieutenant Jimmy Bell.
Alexander appreciates Coleman’s enduring commitment to the role, saying, “It’s great to see that longevity in football. There’s been a lot of energy spent by him as well doing the same job year in, year out and producing results out of nothing.”
He adds, “Not only does the team have a fight on their hands, I think I do as well! I think passion for your job is important, certainly in football. It’s how you express that, and we’re all capable of showing that passion in different ways and at different times.”
Speaking about the demands of football, Alexander emphasizes the necessity of energy and passion for winning games, acknowledging the reality of the sport: “If you haven’t got the energy and passion for winning games, then football’s going to churn you up and spit you out.”
He underscores the importance of inner drive and love for every aspect of the job, not just the results, and recognizes the challenges but also the enjoyment that comes with it.
Discussing Coleman’s exceptional record, Alexander, still affected by the cut-throat nature of his brief stint at MK Dons, expresses admiration for how the Accrington boss has persevered: “I think he’s earned that time. I don’t think anyone’s just given it to him; it’s justified because of the success he’s brought to the club.”
Acknowledging the transient nature of managerial positions in football, Alexander notes the need to earn the time and praises Coleman for his achievements on and off the pitch. He emphasizes the significance of building a team and generating revenue for the club through recruitment and player sales, highlighting the time it takes to establish a culture.
While recognizing the uniqueness of Accrington, Alexander concludes, “There are always different aspects at different clubs, and Accrington is unique. But nobody knows it better than John Coleman because they come hand in hand.”