Wales plan baffling Speed appointment
As if there was ever any doubt that very little in football ever makes sense, consider this situation. Chris Hughton was sacked a week ago today despite leading Newcastle from the Championship to mid-table in the Premier League without spending very much at all.
By contrast, Gary Speed has Sheffield United, who came eighth last season and last finished in the bottom half of the second tier nine seasons ago, lingering a point above the relegation zone and has won only three of his last 13 matches, yet has been headhunted for another job while struggling.
The 41-year-old is reportedly on the verge of leaving Bramall Lane after just four rather unsuccessful months in charge to take over the Welsh national team in a move that will surely demoralise the other contenders like Chris Coleman, Brian Flynn and John Hartson who - while also inexperienced - at least has no track record of failure.
The Blades have, after initially putting up a fight, granted Speed permission to talk to the Football Association of Wales and with Sky Sports suggesting that an agreement could be in place by Tuesday, the 85-times capped midfielder is in to [1.05] to succeed John Toshack.
Sheffield United haven't had much joy with managerial appointments since Neil Warnock's departure in 2007, with the best of the three who have followed the QPR boss, Kevin Blackwell, proving unpopular with fans, so it's vital that they get it right this time if Speed opts to exit.
The Sheffield Star have thrown several names into the mix, including Phil Brown, Chris Hughton, Coleman, Oxford chief Chris Wilder and former Mansfield manager David Holdsworth.
Are Wales making a mistake? Who should the Blades turn to? Tell us below...
Published: 13 Dec 2010
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