Both Southampton and Northampton Town have formally confirmed that Southampton has hired Colin Calderwood as their assistant manager.
After being relegated from the Premier League the previous season, Russell Martin has added the seasoned coach to his coaching staff for the remainder of the campaign as the Saints continue to battle for promotion at the first opportunity.
The former Mansfield Town, Swindon Town and Tottenham Hotspur defender has a wealth of experience, having managed the likes of Northampton, Nottingham Forest and Cambridge United but has now made the jump to the St. Mary’s Stadium.
Director of Football Jason Wilcox of Southampton acknowledged his joy at the club’s “invaluable” acquisition in a statement made public by the organization:
We are confident that his extensive knowledge from his many years as a manager and coach would be very beneficial to our team.
Conversely, Northampton Town chairman Kelvin Thomas acknowledged that he was disappointed to lose Calderwood, but he also acknowledged that the 58-year-old could not turn down the offer [quotes via BBC]:
Although we are saddened by Colin’s decision to move on, we send him our best wishes and regards as a friend.
We can see why he is drawn to the team that is pressing for his return to the Premier League, and they have made him a very nice offer.
“We part on excellent terms and we thank Colin for the significant role he has played at the club over the last two and a half years.”
The Cobblers’ academy head Ian Sampson will step in as Calderwood’s replacement for the time being and Jon Brady has revealed that there is no rush to find a new assistant manager [quotes via BBC]:
“We’ll let the dust settle. It’s a bit fresh about Col, but this is football. At times, you’ve got to adjust and adjust quickly.”
Writer’s View…..
For Northampton Town, which was promoted to League One the previous season, and head coach Brady, Calderwood’s departure is devastating…..
But it’s a wise appointment for Southampton. In addition to his extensive experience as a player, Calderwood has coached some of the best players in English football. The Saints can only gain from his wisdom.
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