Business of Sport Ep.45: Gary Rowett, Fmr Derby, Stoke, Birmingham & Millwall Manager, 'Criticism is part of the contract; you have to accept it'

Business of Sport

This week we are delighted to welcome Gary Rowett to the show. Gary has managed over 500 games working at some of the most historic clubs in English football, and played at the highest level with 381 appearances in the Premier League and EFL.

Much of his career has been spent managing across the Football League with the likes of Birmingham, Derby, Stoke, Millwall, Burton Albion. One of the most popular and respected men in the game, he gives a detailed overview of the pressures of management, how to bring the best out of players, why he turned down the chance to manage in the Premier League, and the importance of accountability.

It can often be a thankless task being a manager. It takes a specific type of character to ride the highs and lows and block out the noise. Then it’s the need for heightened empathy alongside a streak of pretty ruthless decision making. It’s not easy being a manager. Gary’s is a fascinating career and it’s far from over.

On todays show we discuss:

From Player to Manager:

• The similarities and differences between being part of a dressing room and running one.
• Does managing a team that you played for make the job easier? How do you build a relationship with the fans?
• What part of the transition is the hardest to make and how do you get that first job opportunity?
• The essential skills of a manager; what can you not do without if you want to manage at the top level?

Gary’s Club Management:

• Burton Albion, Birmingham, Derby, Stoke, Millwall; the pressures of managing some of England’s biggest teams.
• There isn’t much regret in Gary’s management career, but his time at one club did not go how he wanted. Who?
• What is it like to manage a club that has just been relegated to the Championship and has to adapt from the Premier League?
• Who were the best owners Gary worked with and what makes a great club leader?
• What does Tom Brady bring to Birmingham?

A Manager's Decision Making:

• Why being a manager is a sales job; you have to make the players believe in what you are doing. Get them to buy into it!
• How do you leave players out of a team or squad and still keep them motivated?
• What is the balance to find between youth and experience?
• Taking inspiration from Klopp, Guardiola, Ancelotti & Simeone.
• If you're lucky enough to choose whether to take a job or not, what are the factors to take into account?

A huge thank you to our amazing partners:

WSC Sports

https://wsc-sports.com/

Tyndall Investment Management

https://tyndallim.co.uk/