Expert: Southampton could now spend ‘big’ to sign ‘perfect’ coach after U-turn
Southampton may be forced to fork out “big” money to recruit a replacement for set piece coach Alex Clapham.
That is the view of training ground expert Ben Dinnery, who runs the Premier Injuries site and has a background in medicine and data analysis.
Clapham was one of several specialist additions to Ralph Hasenhuttl’s backroom staff over the summer.
But as related by Training Ground Guru on Monday (5 September), the 33-year-old has left his post after just three months, citing personal reasons.
Dinnery explained why the Saints may struggle to find a “perfect” replacement at a reasonable cost at this stage in the season.
“It’s frustrating because big decisions on recruitment and due diligence aren’t made on the spur of the moment,” he told Football Insider’s Adam Williams.
“A lot of work goes into identifying the perfect person. They need to have the right skill set but they also need to align with the manager’s thoughts.
“When someone leaves in such a short period of time, that leaves a hole. We are at the stage of the season now where you cannot just go out there and pick up a replacement to slot right in there.
“That is a problem because it’s a big expense and also because these guys are in high demand. There are cost and logistical implications.
“It’s a big job in terms of recruitment, just as it is when identifying player targets. It can go on for several months before they find the right person. So, it’s going to be a blow.”
In other news, pundit suggests Southampton star Romeo Lavia could rejoin Man City after journalist’s £40m reveal.