After weeks of speculation over Russell Slade’s future in the wake of rumours he would leave to Sheffield United and then Barnsley, the manager has confirmed his commitment to the club in a statement.
Slade staying with the O’s is fantastic news but his statement on leytonorient.com does raise some concerns.
He states: “Over the last few days there has been increasing speculation regarding my future as manager of Leyton Orient Football Club and I feel it is only right to address this with the Club’s loyal supporters.
“I am an extremely passionate manager and have put my heart and soul into every club that I have managed over the last 17 years. However I am also extremely ambitious and I have high career aspirations for myself.
“In recent days an opportunity arose with an established Championship club however I can confirm that I was not given permission to speak to them and understandably this brings with it an element of frustration.
“That being said, I am a professional and pride myself in having never walked out on a football club. I remain fully committed to my job at Leyton Orient and am looking forward to working with the team to achieve another successful season.”
The fact that Slade has addressed his understandable frustration makes me worry that Hearn’s decision to deny him talks with Barnsley has left a bad feeling between the pair and I hope that it won’t have a lasting effect over the next year.
But at the same time it is good that Slade is being honest, releasing a statement without reference to any disappointment would have come across as slightly fake.
I was adamant that Slade should stay at the club at any cost but the slightly negative tone to the majority of the statement makes me think that maybe we shouldn’t have stood in his way, a wantaway manager could be just as damaging as a wantaway player.
But hopefully the club and Slade can move on quickly from the last nervous and frustrating few weeks with a few good signings and a positive pre-season. Next season’s aim must now be for Slade to reach the Championship, just as manager of the O’s.
Are you happy that Slade released a statement? Do you think his frustration could have a lasting effect? Leave your comments below….
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