Billy Davies, former Derby County manager, is planning a return to management and says he is open to new opportunities.
The Scot has been out of job since leaving Nottingham Forest in 2014, when there was a lot of controversy at the club during his second tenure as manager. Davies has a remarkable managerial record, having led Preston to the Championship play-off final before promoting Derby to the Premier League.
After a long sabbatical from the dugout, he is now ready to return to the pressure cooker setting, having spent time touring teams in Europe and chatting with managers, players, and chief executives.
When asked about a possible return and where he wanted to go next, Davies told Not the Old Firm, “I’m open-minded.” Whether it’s working in Scotland, England, or elsewhere. That is why it was so necessary for me to travel to Portugal; in the next weeks, I will be visiting a few clubs in Austria.
“I’ve had some chats that may not have come to fruition. But I am very enthusiastic and ready to go and make new experiences. It’s pointless to dwell on the past for too long; instead, focus on moving forward and hopefully succeeding in whatever the next challenge may be.
“Among other things, I mentor young people because it is vital to me to aid them. Off-field issues, such as rules and regulations, are essential to me as well. Then there’s the wonderful management team we’re working with, which includes Superior Sports Management and Lee Doyle. I’m now looking at the big picture for a modern-day manager, which is critical.”
Davies is happy of his management record and adds, “I do feel that I’ve got the experience, the enthusiasm, the passion, and the will to win, the desire to get on the training pitch to warm up, and that, you just don’t lose that.” That’s in your blood, and I’m really happy to have it.
“This is a results-driven business; everything revolves around statistics and points. People can have their own opinions, and I have no problem with that. But they cannot have their own facts. It’s all about the results. I’m quite proud of the start I’ve had with all of these clubs; we’ve left them in great shape, and I’ve done an excellent job at each one. This makes me very happy.
“Why haven’t I played in a club recently? That is a question for others. It is determined by the type of management they (clubs) intend to hire, as well as their aims. Is it about outcomes, victories, promotions, and cup finals? These are questions for others to ask. I believe that the most essential thing for me is to continue to evolve and learn. Continue to communicate with diverse people in this ever-changing game.”
