As widely reported, Gavin Chesterfield has been a member of the subcommittee created to help identify the Bluebirds’ new boss.
With the appointment of a new First Team Manager set to be confirmed in the near future, our Academy Manager has provided an update into the process undertaken.
“The board put together our subcommittee that included former Manchester City Director of Academy and Rangers Director of Football, Mark Allen. It was great to be able to draw on Mark’s experience in this field. Wasserman Agency were also on hand to add further insights and support. It was felt it was important in this role to feed into the process on what was required from an ‘on the ground’ perspective. Adding an internal aspect affords the opportunity to feel what the pulse of the Club requires and naturally I’m proud in the trust shown by the board in my inclusion.
“As with any recruitment process, we worked to a clear mandate from the board of directors, which led us to consider three styles - experienced managers, up and coming managers/head coaches and international based options. We worked through a long list of talented options according to a clear criterion to ensure consistency of process.
“Truthfully though, no two recruitment processes are the same. It has taken longer than initially expected, but this is a crucial decision at a key time for our football club. Having started with a blank canvas, we are proud of the final options presented to the board for consideration. This is an appointment that everyone wants to get right for the future of Cardiff City.
"Looking at my own position and the people I represent day-to-day too, in today’s football landscape it’s vital that Academy players have a pathway through to the First Team and our Club is no different. I’m fortunate to have had very good relationships with all the managers across my time here and I’m anticipating that this work continues. We very much believe in the players coming through, but we can’t forget the realities of First Team football. They have to be ready to perform at the levels expected as winning on a Saturday is vital.”
Club Director, Steve Borley added: “We understand that concerns have been expressed regarding the length of the process, and while initially the plan was to have the manager, and his staff, in place before now, the correct due diligence, however long it took, was essential to the ongoing success of the Club. This is one of the most important appointments in Cardiff City’s recent history.
“We’ve been immensely impressed by the standard of those who wish to lead our football club. We are excited to share a further positive update soon regarding the appointment of a new management team once the necessary negotiations have been concluded.
“Tan Sri Vincent Tan, Mehmet Dalman, Ken Choo, our board of directors and I wish to place on record our thanks to Gavin Chesterfield, Mark Allen and the Wasserman Agency.”