It could be a long 90 minutes for the Nevilles against a Barcelona side who have a four-point lead over Atletico Madrid and a six-point advantage over Real Madrid at the top of the table.
Advertisement
“I don’t think he will have a problem with the players”. Valencia is one of the biggest clubs in Spain; one of the biggest in Europe. “Peter and I have known Gary for many years and we see something very special in him”, added the Singaporean.
“It would have been unfair on the players”.
Phil Neville was made the interim coach at the Spanish club but after the appointment of his brother, he was made to step down from the post, but he continues to be a part of Valencia’s coaching unit. “I know the passion and intimidation from the fans from playing here in the past and I want to harness that in the coming months”. We talk about actions and what we’re going to do. “I think the team will make the most of the game and I think it will be a great match”. That is not the way I work. “I just told them I’m here to give my all and to give my best and I expect the same from them really”.
Neville took the reins at Mestalla on December 2 in what is his first managerial role, following the resignation of Nuno Espirito Santo from the Liga club.
“When I spoke to Roy Hodgson he was incredibly supportive and positive and enthusiastic for me, and I was inspired by the conversation”. From my point of view I wanted to complete my job, certainly through to the European Championship.
“Obviously I have a lot of interests back home but I’m fully focused on this challenge in front of me”. Salford City has a 14-person committee, a coaching staff and three other owners who live near the ground. My input, in that sense, is minimal.
But he confirmed yesterday’s Mirror exclusive that he had spoken to his former Manchester United manager about his Spanish adventure.
“I need to appraise the players over the next couple of weeks and it’s important to pick the right team and style to win games”. I’ve been in that world myself. I won’t shy away from the direct approach I had on television.
Neville is certainly a man who is set about being a success in his first venture into management.
The former non-league striker has broken multiple records this season, including becoming the first player to score at least once in 11 consecutive Premier League matches. If I turned down this opportunity, I would have lost some credibility.
Advertisement
Valencia are now third in the Liga standings, and could catch leaders Barcelona should they win Saturday’s clash, before Gary takes over for their Champions League encounter with Olympique Lyonnais.
