“Working-class mindset” – John Eustace, the manager target for Bristol City, is profiled by Birmingham City
John Eustace has been linked to the Bristol City manager’s position. Would he be a good fit for the Robins?
Following their parting from Nigel Pearson on Sunday, Bristol City began their search for a new manager, and names are starting to surface as potential candidates.
The 60-year-old was fired by the Robins, who justified their decision with a reference to recent performance. However, there has been backlash against the move. Many members of the fan base have expressed their belief that Pearson ought to have stayed, and they have also reminded the decision-makers that the team is currently facing an injury crisis that is having an impact on the team’s performance.
Journalist Rob Dorsett of SkySports revealed on Sunday that a shortlist of three names had already been selected. Nathan Jones, who was fired by Southampton in February, and Gary Rowett, who was the last manager to leave a Championship club prior to Gareth Ainsworth’s dismissal, were both on there. The player’s last name was John Eustace, and many people think Wayne Rooney replaced him after he was fired by Birmingham City.
This year, Eustace has already had the honor of managing at Ashton Gate, albeit with varying degrees of success. When the Robins triumphed 4-2 in January, Antoine Semenyo, Nahki Wells, and Mark Sykes scored goals. That was under his leadership. Nevertheless, in August, the former QPR coach did exact revenge, winning 2-0 thanks to goals from Rob Dickie and Koji Miyoshi. Dickie and Eustace had collaborated at Loftus Road, which would undoubtedly be a benefit for Bristol City’s prospective new manager.
We asked someone who is qualified to comment on John Eustace in order to gain a deeper understanding of the man. Journalist Charlie Haffenden of BirminghamWorldfootball.com responded to our inquiries about his managerial style and what Robins supporters might anticipate if he is chosen as the winner.
How would you describe John Eustace? What was his management style like at Birmingham City?
Eustace’s play was initially quite poor as Birmingham mostly relied on long-ball football and set pieces. But as time went on, the emphasis shifted more toward possession. Eustace’s style became more dynamic and aggressive during the summer transfer window, as Blues acquired several dangerous wingers.
What was John Eustace’s favoured formation at Birmingham City – or did he change his approach depending on the opponent?
Eustace showed some good tactical versatility during his time at St Andrew’s as he switched between three main formations – a wide 4-2-3-1, a narrow 4-2-2-2 diamond and a 3-5-2 with wing-backs.
As for transfer business – he worked with a technical director Craig Gardner. Do you think any of the signings he made were his or by the person above him?
Though the technical director would usually have the last word, Eustace and Gardner had a certain amount of unity. Since Wayne Rooney entered the picture, the balance has somewhat shifted. Rooney is referred to as “manager,” while Eustace was called “head coach,” highlighting the minor distinction.
What would be the positives for Bristol City if they were to get John Eustace? What’s his best strengths?
Eustace’s working-class mentality and strong man-management abilities would undoubtedly help the Robins. He used to talk a lot and very passionately about how his players should defend one another like a working-class family. It produced excellent outcomes, particularly in the later phases of games.
Would there be any downsides to appointing Eustace… Is there anything you think he can improve on?
The drawback would have to be Eustace’s substitution-based decision-making. Birmingham supporters would frequently become irate over the tardiness or lack of changes. It’s obvious that Eustace prefers to maintain some consistency in his lineups, even during games, but occasionally, quicker substitutions were required to change the tide.
Should Eustace be appointed as Bristol City boss, is there anyone you’d expect him to try and sign?
Perhaps a bit of a random pick, but during Reda Khadra’s final season on loan at Blues, Eustace had nothing but positive things to say about the player. Khadra moved to Stade Reims from Brighton in the summer, but he hasn’t played much there. In theory, Eustace might try to sign Khadra to a loan once more.
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