“And the pieces of my puzzle keep crumbling away, but I know there's a picture beneath…”

But unlike Mike Patton and Faith No More, Mark felt like he wasn't falling to pieces - in fact he was now the happiest he had been in a number of weeks since he swapped Whitburn for the Faroe Islands. Granted he still missed his family and friends in Whitburn, he was slowly warming to life in a new country and was getting used to the language with Kai doing a sterling job as translator.

Elisabeth was happy as well. She had seen Mark start to create a bit of an identity in the last couple of games. Perhaps MB could be a real underdog story in the season ahead? But Mark wanted more from her, as in more new faces and maybe build on the meagre backroom staff. When asked was there anything more between the two, Mark simply told everyone: “It's a business relationship, nothing more.”

The job adverts had run for a couple of weeks but Mark advised Elisabeth to keep them running as he wasn't sure that the applicants weren't good enough. Granted MB wouldn't be bringing in a Sir Alex Ferguson type figure, Mark felt he wanted to have a difficult choice to make before discussing contracts with interested parties.

“Mark, I thought I'd give you an update on those recruitment advertisements?” Elisabeth began.

“Sure thing,, Much interest?” Mark asked.

“Coach - one applicant. Chief Scout - nobody. MB2 Manager - one applicant. Physio - two applicants.”

“Really? That's disappointing.”

“Thought you'd say that. I kinda expected it.”

“Keep the ads running. We will re-evaluate it again soon. I am sure there might some better quality out there.”

“You think so?”

“No, but I hope there is. Let's wait it out a bit longer."

“Fair.”

Mark also felt a bit disappointed with Martin Nielsen, one of two strikers that he had currently got on a three week trial. The teenager had come off as early as 22 minutes against KÍ Klaksvík which completely threw Mark's plans out of the window. He had plans for Nielsen and the other trialist, Páll Holm Jacobsen, half a game to get a good understanding. Nielsen's early departure chucked that in the bin. That said Jacobsen, didn't exactly let himself down with a poacher's finish and a generally solid performance. Of the two, Jacobsen now was in prime position to get himself a permanent deal once the trial ends at the moment.  Could Nielsen redeem himself?

A third permanent newcomer arrived though in midweek, and it saw another of Mark's identified gaps filled: a ball winning central midfielder.

Despite his age, the newcomer had played in the Faroese Premier Division already so Mark was pleased as punch to get him in his MB squad. He would add some added bite to the midfield which Mark thought MB needed. Now if Mark could add a creative midfielder and a right back then his rebuild would be near as damnit completed.

One final friendly to play, fifth time lucky?

Some things you cannot plan for or dictate, sometimes you have to go with the flow…

With his latest permanent signing in the squad, as well as the two trialist strikers, Mark prepared for the team's fourth pre-season outing of the season. Once more they were hosting a Premier Division side, this time KÍ Klaksvík would grace the MB Arena with their presence. However, with a positive feeling in their bones Mark genuinely thought that MB might get something from this game. The main thing was to go out there with a smile on your face, and put in a shift from first minute to the last.

It was the main message that Mark was determined to drill into his MB side. Could they elevate their game to a whole new level?

That's what Mark wanted to know.

The fourth friendly saw another increased attendance for MB, perhaps people were starting to think that something might be brewing in their midst. Well Mark felt now that he had got his new team playing the way he wanted them to. Perhaps he had found positives.

That friendly against KÍ Klaksvík saw MB have a terrible start, then rally back and almost take a draw from their higher ranked opponent. A bit Jekyll and Hyde you could say. Predictably KÍ Klaksvík had MB on the back foot from the first whistle but it would take them 24 minutes to score the opening goal, Montenegrin striker Boris Dostjak with a pinpoint header into the net from an Abubakar Ibrahim right wing cross. Two goals in six minutes on the run up to half time extended the lead to 0-3 for the visitors, In the 36th minute Sebastian Avanzini's free kick was pushed onto the post by Jákup Thomsen only for the rebound to land at the feet of Ísak Simonsen to poach in from almost on the goal line.

Goal three arrived when Simonsen turned provider this time; his left wing cross landing onto the head of Ole Erik Midtskogen whose header arrowed into the bottom corner of Thomsen's net. There was a danger for Mark that MB would then sink without trace but within a minute they had pulled one back when Jhan Færø centred for Eli Thomsen to stoop and direct a header past Meinhardt Joensen.  That changed the mood and Mark's half time team talk entirely. Just before the hour, MB were within one goal when trialist striker Páll Holm Jacobsen latched onto a Fridi Johansen punt forward to steer the ball past the advancing Joensen. Jacobsen had come on as early as the 22nd minute when fellow trialist Martin Nielsen had signalled he wanted to come off.

Try as they might MB couldn't score a third which would have been another enormous boost for the team. That said, Dostjak was denied his second and the visitors fourth of the afternoon with ten minutes to go, an offside flag denying him. But still more reasons to smile. One more friendly to go, but Mark knew one thing: the team were far from the finished article. More newcomers maybe on the way?

"It's not winning that always matters, it's about giving your best."  - Jock Pearce (to Mark) 1999.

It was a philosophy that Mark firmly believed in to this day. Dad was always his biggest supporter, and everything that Mark wanted to achieve was down to paternal motivation. That was nothing against his mother, who used to be the one in the background washing the kit, but Dad was the one that would drive him here, there and every bloody where. From Carluke to Cambuslang, Kilmarnock to Kirkcaldy - Jock drove Mark everywhere until he had passed his driving test which actually took him three attempts to do so.

Now Mark was having to do this without his inspiration at his side.

The draw against AB had given him a bit of a spring in his step, his team had shown for 60 minutes that they could compete but the wholesale changes gave their higher ranked opponents an opening which they took advantage of and eventually had MB on the ropes. Thankfully for Mark, they had enough about them to keep themselves in the game and come away with that morale boosting share of the spoils. Some fine resolute Scottish spirit in Faroese bodies, Faroese Bravehearts Mark joked. As he tucked into a plate of skerpikjøt , Mark decided to give Kai a ring:

“Hello Mark, how's it going my friend?” Kai answered in his typical upbeat nature.

“Not bad Kai, just having some skerpikjøt and listening to some tunes.” Mark replied. “I need a favour Kai.”

“Sure, you want whisky.  I can get you that. I know a man…”

“That would be great, but it wasn't what I wanted to ask about.”

“OK….”

“Can I get a tattoo here?”

“What in Miðvágur? You must be joking Mark. But my brother Erik knows a man that does them. One problem, you will need to travel.”

“Where?”

“Torshavn.”

“Fair, get me booked in with him. Sooner the better.”

“OK, I'm on it. Have you finest Scottish whisky delivered tomorrow Mark.”

“That's fair enough. Catch you soon Kai.”

So after being set against them in the past, Mark was going to follow others and get some art done. He knew Mam and Dad would be horrified, Jock didn't believe in them but all Mark's friends back in Whitburn had one or in some cases, a full arm sleeve. Even some of the ladies in Whitburn possessed them. It was a thing now, and all down to a certain David Robert Joseph Beckham who made them an apparent fashion item. Young footballers at 18 were sporting them too. Dad had said that only sailors and Maoris had them. Now Mark was joining them. And it would be something to take his mind off everything else in the world.

Ahead of the next friendly, Mark boosted the squad again. Two more strikers taken on trial and a new central defender signed permanently. Kai said the fans liked the look of all three and this pleased Mark no end. Each one of them would feature at some point in the game ahead, and this time Mark was going to resist changes at 60 minutes: instead he would field a new line up at half time regardless MB be winning, losing or drawing. The new signing was defender Andreas Poulsen:

Poulsen was a towering and imposing defender, standing at 6 foot 3 inches which would potentially make him a threat in both penalty areas. He also represented in Mark's eyes, an upgrade on the current central defence options at MB. Andreas had playing experience in the two divisions above MB at present, and this would be his second spell in MB colours: having played three times in the blue and white in 2015. The rebuild was coming together.

“Please tell me, what have I. What have I done to deserve this…”

Sang the Pet Shop Boys in their collaboration with Dusty Springfield in 1987, but at the moment it could easily have been Mark Pearce. Mark felt lost, it was clear that he would need some kind of assistance if he wanted to make an immediate impression on Elisabeth that he was the right man for MB and justify her faith in bringing in an unknown foreign Head Coach.

The side had conceded eight goals in those two pre-season outings, four each time. Mark knew that the squad he had inherited was a squad of amateurs who by Mark's own secret admission: would struggle to get a starting spot at Whitburn Juniors. With nobody in place to head the recruitment specifically, Elisabeth was doing that as well. The players even took their kit home with them after matches and training sessions too. This was proper basic football. Mark was learning to his intense Faroese language course when suddenly his mobile rang. He (Mark) didn't recognise the number so there was a definite air of trepidation as he answered the call:

“Hello, is that Mr Mark Pearce?" came the initial contact.

“Yes it is, and you are?” Mark responded cautiously.

“My name is Jóhan Bergsson Johansen Mr Pearce. I was just wondering sir, do you have any space for strikers at your team at present?”

“Let me have a think Jóhan, can I take a rain check and call you back in say: 15 minutes or so?”

“Of course sir.”

Mark immediately contacted Kristoffer, and was told immediately in no certain terms: SIGN HIM! The striker was 25, and had scored 7 goals in 21 games in the division above last season. He was a goalscorer and a long way, better than the all the strikers MB had at the moment. Jóhan ticked the boxes but would he accept a deal within MB's structure? Mark needn't have worried as Johan said yes without hesitation. He therefore became the first signing through the door, and how good did that feel. Jóhan would debut this Saturday in pre-season game three against another top flight side in AB.

Jóhan was presented the following afternoon, and met his new team-mates shortly. Elisabeth nodded her approval too. If Jóhan could score a goal every three games in the division above then he should really flourish for MB. That was Mark's thinking. Now for reinforcements from other areas of the pitch was next. Mark also managed to talk Elisabeth into looking for people for important staffing roles. Mark wanted a Director of Football, Coach, a dedicated manager for MB 2 and a Head Physio in. Elisabeth agreed it would be good for the Club profile and rubberstamped the recommendations: it just a case of getting the right people in now. The Club's finances had also pleased her, they actually some cash in the bank.

Slowly but surely, Mark was trying to transform these perennial underachievers. Just get the results on the board when the real thing starts in seven weeks time.

The team again played 4-3-2-1 with the new boy given an immediate chance to show his new supporters what he is going to offer Mark and MB. Mark also decided that the substitutes would be players who could fulfil a specific role, and he would change the entire starting eleven on the hour - providing no injuries. Everything looks good on a bit of paper right?

In front of more people, which meant even more funds into the Club, Mark and MB avoided defeat for the first time in pre-season. It was a game that had goals and gave Mark every reason to feel happy. However, he rued his decision to make wholesale changes on the hour which he felt in the grand scheme of things, unbalanced the momentum which MB held.

MB took the lead in the ninth minute when Bjarni Petersen lashed home a 30 yarder that gave the AB goalkeeper no chance whatsoever. It even had both benches applauding, it was an absolute worldie of a strike. In the 25th minute, MB were awarded a penalty when Jóhannus Hansen was adjudged to have fouled the goalscorer as they challenged at a free kick; Eli Thomsen assumed responsibility but saw his 12 yard effort brilliantly saved by Bjarti Vitali Mørk. However, Mørk was again well beaten from distance as MB doubled their lead in the 33rd minute when the newcomer whizzed one home from the edge of the area. No a bad way to introduce yourself to your new club Jóhan Bergsson Johansen!

AB's response was immediate, they were being schooled by a third tier side who had a rookie Head Coach in the dugout. Striker Allan Joensen was particularly getting frustrated as he had two “goals” rubbed out in as many minutes after the second MB goal. On both occasions, Joensen was adjudged offside. The mood at half time was jubilant from a MB perspective but the Miðvágur air was literally being turned blue as Mark's opposing number was quite simply doing a Neil Warnock at his underperforming charges, Whatever he said, AB really started to step it up and MB were suddenly chasing literal shadows. The changes made by Mark did nothing to stem the incessant tide as the white shirted visitors mounted attack after attack.

Could MB hold out for a famous and unexpected win, even if it was in pre-season? AB halved the deficit in the 66th minute, Brazilian teenager Klayver Schimith with a sweet volley that just flew into the net with Jákup Thomsen a virtual spectator as it flew past him. Eight minutes later it became 2-2 when veteran Nigerian striker Adeshina Lawal reacted first to poke the ball past Thomsen with MB looking in vain for an offside that simply was never going to turn up. Still there was time for a third AB disallowed goal, substitute right-back Hedin Dam being signalled as offside this time. So an entertaining game ended in a draw, and Mark felt pleased: very pleased in fact.

Now if he could add more new names to the squad that would just great indeed. MB might just become the surprise packet, and for Mark: that would be very satisfactory indeed. It would cause a few eyebrows to be raised, and everyone loves an underdog. Well, don't they? 

Ever get that feeling that you possibly have made a mistake?

Mark hoped that he might be able to recruit some fresh blood into the ranks in the 18 days gap between pre-season friendly one and pre-season friendly two. After all, that inter-club friendly was a real eye opener for him. This was a squad that needed something and if Mark wanted to avoid finishing rank bottom, not that Elisabeth seemed to care, then new faces had to arrive.

However, getting anyone in was a massive task in itself, especially with zero transfer funds. Surely there would some free agents wanting to be signed up?

Those 18 days seemed like an absolute age, it was like time had simply stood still. Working in the offices at the fishing port wasn't exactly wonderful as Mark was basically an office junior. All he did was filing away correspondence and do the mail run. Nothing glamorous, and a far cry from walking the streets of Whitburn delivering the mail and dodging dogs. Mark called home every night, speaking to his family was keeping him going. Why did I agree to this gig, Mark constantly asked himself?

It felt like Simon had sold him a dud, and contrary to what Simon had told him: his old school chum wasn't exactly responsive when Mark tried to call him or drop him a text. It was like Simon had gone off grid, and didn't have a vested interest anymore. “That's the last time I'm gonna trust that ginger idiot. He's stitched me up again like he used to at school. Total bawbag.”  Mark mumbled to himself. “Next job, I'll do everything myself. Stuff anyone else."

So the next game was another one at the MB Arena but against top flight side TB. MB were not expected to win, but Mark just hoped for one thing: the Club would give their all and leave it all out on the pitch. Commitment to the cause.

Like the first game, the game was again played in rain soaked conditions. Kai told Mark that this was typical for the time of the year and to expect nothing different until at least May. It was just like being at home.

As for the game, the first half ended goalless but TB had been reduced to ten men in the 22nd minute when central midfield from Rógvi Joensen was sent off for a late two-footed challenge on Bjarni Olsen. Mark sensed that with the man advantage, then perhaps an unexpected win could be in the offing. But good teams always find ways to win, and the second half became a nightmare for Mark and his MB side.

Experienced Swedish winger Ken Fagelberg gave the top division side the lead eight minutes into the second half with a smart turn and finish from just inside the penalty area that gave Jonas Petersen no chance. The roof though fell in on Mark and MB in the final quarter of an hour as the visitors made light of their numerical disadvantage with three goals to give them a convincing triumph. In the 75th minute Mads Raben latched on to a through ball to beat Jákup Thomsen at his near post. Raben bagged his second seven minutes later, again latching onto a long ball before giving Thomsen the eyes and slotting the ball home with an air of confidence. The fourth came a minute from time, Bartal Gram with a thunderous drive from the edge of the box that crashed in off the underside of the bar.

Food for thought for sure.

Time to stop wasting time; time to get the game face on…and get down to business!

Mark Pearce had only just been presented as the new Head Coach of MB, and now he was getting ready for his first match. However before it took place, he grabbed a quick few words with Elisabeth:

“Elisabeth, can I have a few words in private before the first pre-season game please?” Mark asked.

“Sure, what's up?” Elisabeth responded, warmly.

“What's the funds like for bringing in new players and staff, please?”

“To be honest, it's zilch. Unfortunately we do not have any money as such so you'll have to wheel and deal as regards players. And if you can you get someone into the staff structure on no wages then…”

“Yeah OK, I get the gist. Thanks.”

So no transfer funds and anyone who wants to join the Club would have to be on a £0 contract. Coupled with the fact that the Faroese Third Division wasn't exactly a division that would attract players like a magnet then Elisabeth was right, Mark would have to “wheel and deal” to try and get the best he could. Now if he could get an unlikely promotion then maybe the whole dynamic would change. That was Mark's ideal plan although Elisabeth would probably think otherwise. If Graham Potter could do unlikely things in Sweden with an obscure side that nobody knew about then what price Mark replicating this in the Faroe Islands? Anything's possible, right? Dream a little dream….

Time to see what this newly inherited bunch are like, and since MB2 had no official manager then Kristoffer Kvistgaard would be in the opposing dugout. Could Mark's reign start with a morale boosting win?

With the entire squad split between both teams, each side could not field a full pre-season complement of substitutes: Mark had seven changes at his disposal whilst Kristoffer had six for the second string. Therefore it was important not to pick up any serious injuries once all the changes had been made. The match itself was played in an absolute downpour with 

In a game that had plenty of goalmouth action, Mark opted for a 4-2-3-1 formation with Kristoffer matching up the tactic. The opening goal went the way of the “visitors” when Elias Jakobsen  lashed in an unstoppable volley into the top corner from fully 25 yards with Jákup Thomsen given no chance. A minute later, Mark was celebrating an equaliser when Eli Thomsen planted a free header home from Tórur Petersen's well-flighted free kick. The second string regained the lead after 26 minutes when Martin Arge produced a great turn and finish into the far corner. A crazy first 45 saw a second “home” goal in the 38th minute when a deep right wing cross to the far post was collected by an unmarked Kári Joensen to finish on the half volley.

Two goals in the last 16 minutes gave MB “2” the winning spoils, both scored by substitute Átil Hansen. The striker, introduced in the 56th minute scored his first in the 74th minute when he latched onto a long ball to outstrip Kari Højgaard and steer his shot beyond substitute goalkeeper Jonas Petersen. The goalkeeper was at fault for the fourth goal two minutes later when he failed to collect a hopeful ball and Hanseni nipped in to steer home. Food for thought for Mark, with 18 days to go to the second of five pre-season matches. Had he bitten off more than he could chew already?

“Morning has broken, like the first morning. Blackbird has spoken, like the first bird…”

It was the first day of Mark Pearce's life in the Faroe Islands after agreeing to become the new Head Coach of third tier MB. He called home, and informed his family of what happened in the last twenty four hours. Jock and Anne couldn't have been proud of their boy. “This is your destiny.” Jock told him. “”Make those dreams happen son."

So Monday 14 January 2019, the newest chapter in Mark Pearce's life would begin in earnest.

Today would be a busy day, meeting the players and backroom staff at the MB Arena in the morning and in the afternoon: his first ever press conference as a football manager. Kai would be there of course, acting as translator which Mark welcomed because it would have been a struggle otherwise. After having breakfast, a bowl of Crunchy Nut Cornflakes, Mark waited for kai's arrival. Kai arrived ten minutes later, the sounds of Iron Maiden's Powerslave filling the Faroese air as he parked up.

“Kai, got a quick question before we set off mate.” Mark began. “At breakfast this morning, I was offered Weetabix, Frosties or Crunchy Nut Cornflakes - wasn't expecting it. Any reason why?”

“We like British things here Mr Mark. Such as those and especially Cadbury's Dairy Milk chocolate.” Kai responded.

“Really?”

“Really Mr Mark. You give a Faroese girl Cadbury's Dairy Milk, and she love you forever. I mean forever. It's how I wooed my wife…"

Mark just chuckled as the car sereenly made its way to the MB Arena. MB, Kai explained, stood for Miðvágs Bóltfelag: the first part from the village's name itself which it represented and Bóltfelag literally meant football. It was a small stadium, holding no more than 1000 spectators although the average attendance would be more like double figures than anything else. Definitely more akin to what Mark had seen in Scottish Junior Football than the surroundings and atmosphere of a Bernabeu or Camp Nou on a El Clasico fixture. But as Simon reminded him yesterday: “Every manager has to start somewhere.”- and this was where Mark was now.

Awaiting him, were the backroom staff. It numbered just two - assistant manager Pætur Djurhuus who was a local and Kristoffer Kvistgaard: a Danish national who was in charge of the youth development. With a combined age of less than 95 between all three, they represented a youthful outlook and one that Elisabeth prided herself on. What they could achieve was in front of them, a blank canvas and a chance to start anew. The squad itself had 18 first team members, headed by 26 year old winger Eli Thomsen as current club captain. With no transfer funds to call upon, Mark had to meld and manipulate something into them. It wouldn't be easy but it was an opportunity that Mark was now embracing.

The afternoon saw Mark hold his first presser. With Elisabeth sat to his right and Kai to his left, he sounded upbeat and passionate which drew a lot of praise - he was certainly not there for a quick holiday. He wanted to succeed and that meant getting results. Mark had five friendlies to get something put in place before the real thing started in March.

First friendly tomorrow against MB's second string. Question was, what formation to play? Something basic might not be the worst thing in the world.

So eventually Mark knew why he had been asked to swap Whitburn for the Faroe Islands. Football.

Whilst the [prospect of becoming a Head Coach of a football team was tempting, the fact that Simon Dell hadn't been up front and honest initially still rankled in Mark's subconscious mind. Now he was set to meet the mysterious Elisabeth. The car pulled up eventually outside a museum in the village of Miðvágur, Kai went through the front door and disappeared into what looked like a café inside. He re-appeared a few minutes later, his left arm signalling come forward like a policeman directing traffic.

Elisabeth Haraldsen was sat at a table festooned with two glasses and a bottle of water. She was a slim brunette, dressed smartly as if she was about to conduct a job interview. Her football interest was as genuine as Simon had described it, a former player (she was a goalkeeper, despite her lack of height) who was now calling the shots at her local side. Quite the journey. Of course Kai would act as translator between both parties. The discussion lasted a good hour or so, well it seemed longer due to the fact of the translation required.

Mark listened intently to Elisabeth's vision for her football club, she clearly didn't want much. The main objectives were simple:

The side was obviously one that needed a kick up the backside, Mark thought especially now he knew what was expected from him. The job would be on a month to month basis which meant either party could walk away if they so desired. But Mark was in his mind, thinking bigger. Elisabeth had also, as Simon had stated previously, secured Mark paid employment in the office at the fishing port where he would just do basic administration. He arose from his seat, and signalled to Kai that he wanted a few moments to himself. Mark walked back to the car where Simon was still sat there, playing a game on his mobile. He rapped the window, and Simon wound it down.

“Mate, she's not wanting much in terms of club demands is she?”

“Nope, that's the attraction there - if you can get them winning games then it's a bonus. I wouldn't have recommended you to her if I didn't think you could get a tune of that side. They're just not accustomed to success.” Simon responded.

“Well you know I'm used to that winning feeling.”

“I know. Gonna take it?”

“Now I have got an understanding of what's expected, I think this could be an interesting proposition.”

“Every manager has to start somewhere.”

“That they do, that they do”

Mark walked back to the café where Elisabeth was wondering what his decision. His smile provided the answer. Elisabeth had a new Head Coach for her football club, Mark had just agreed to take his first steps into the world of football management. He would meet everyone in earnest the following morning, and take in his first sight of the MB Arena. Mark saw his journey similar to that of Graham Potter, the Englishman who took a then fourth tier Swedish side in the shape of Östersunds FK from obscurity to the top flight and the Europa League. Wouldn't that be something to replicate, even surpass. Seeing them walk out of the cafe, smiling, made Simon Dell happy too - his work was done. Now at the end of a long day, it was time for Mark to get his head down and sleep.

The new adventure would begin at 08:45 hours Faroese time.

"Mine damer og herrer, vi ankommer snart til Tórshavn. Alle passagerer bedes venligst vende tilbage til deres køretøjer og gøre sig klar til at gå i land.  Tak."

Was the announcement that came about four or so hours later. Mark had no idea what it meant, so started to fall asleep once more but was awoken from his slumber by the sight of the driver bounding into the cabin. He appeared to be in a rush.

“Mr Mark sir, did you hear the announcement?” asked the driver.

“I heard something but it made no sense, like it was someone eating with a mouthful of that skerpikjøt you got me. Which was actually quite nice.” Mark responded, whilst rubbing the grit from his eyes.

“Glad you liked it Mr Mark, you will be eating lots of that here. Basically we have to go back to car, we're almost in Tórshavn.”

“Just answer me this please? Where the bloody hell in the world is Tórshavn?”

“You not heard of Tórshavn Mr Mark? It's the capital of the Faroe Islands, my home country. Oh sorry for not introducing myself, I'm Kai.”

“Kai. What am I doing in the blooming Faroe Islands?”

“Let's go Mr Mark, we meet Mr Simon here and then onto Elisabeth.”

“I'm on my way Kai, lead us forwards my man.”

The port of Torshavn, capital of the Faroe Islands - a Danish speaking municipality but with its own home rule since 1946. Kai admitted to Mark that English wasn't a language that was commonly spoken here as the locals spoke their own language as well as Danish. When quizzed how Kai learnt his English, Kai just laughed:

“By listening to great English band Iron Maiden.”

Mark laughed back, and after going through more security checks: the two men were met by a tall, ginger haired guy whose face Mark tried his hardest to place.

“You made it here bud, so good to see you again after all these years.”

It was Simon Dell. The man responsible for this adventure. Simon jumped into the Volvo, and explained that he was now working with the Faroese government these days in finance but had never lost touch with things back home. As Kai continued to drive, Simon stated he had been watching Mark's football coaching exploits from here in Torshavn and had a vision their paths would cross again someday. Football was clearly the common denominator here. But where did the mysterious Elisabeth come into the equation? Simon explained.

“I got to know Elisabeth through working here in local government.” Simon began. “And she's quite into her football actually. Like proper addicted to it.”

“And me?” Mark queried.

“Well she's like the chairperson of a third tier amateur side here. Who kinda need a new head coach…”

“Wait a bloody minute Simon! You're telling me you've flown me all the way out to the Faroe Islands to become a head coach of an amateur football side that are a lower standard than Buckie Thistle?”

“Er, yes.”

“So what's the craic wages like?”

“Head coaches here at this level don't earn wages mate. They do it voluntarily…”

“Naw. Nae having this - turn this bloody car around Kai. I don't care what Elisabeth ruddy thinks, I'm not managing any football club on zero wages.”

“But she's got great contracts in the fishing industry there, and…”

“I'm not going to be a damn fisherman, it's bad enough dodging dugs as a postie in Whitburn. Turn the car around Kai, please."

Kai continued to drive forwards.

“Look mate it's all arranged, you will have a desk job in the fishing port - sit on your erse all day and do paperwork. Then manage the footy club on a part time basis. You always said you wanted to get out of Whitburn and be a football manager somewhere. Well, this is your chance mate. Think aboot it.”

“Aye  I did say that.” Mark responded, a calmer demeanour now replacing the previous angry one. “But I cannae speak their lingo.”

“This is where Kai comes in again, see him as your translator type gadgie. I'll still be around for a couple of months or so, my work contract expires here soon before I'm away to Oslo where my wife and weans live."

“I'm no making a mistake am I?”

“Naw mate, you're going to make a name for yersel. This is just the start. Let's go to meet Elisabeth, she's gonna love you pal. Literally love you.”

“Whatever.”

A stranger in a strange land, that how it felt as Mark Pearce walked through the exit doors in Copenhagen Airport.

The driver was giving nothing away, ignoring any direct questions Mark had for him. All he was saying was: “Elisabeth will sort it.” every time. But who is Elisabeth and what connection did she have with Simon Dell?  The Red Volvo  sped its way through traffic, Mark still perplexed. Eventually two and a half hours, it drew to a halt at what looked like a ferry terminal, the driver got out and walked towards a uniformed guard in the gathering gloom with Mark locked in the vehicle: unable to get out. Mark witnessed the driver produce some papers to the guard who checked them and handed them back with a nod of the head.  It was then the driver approached the passenger rear door where Mark was sitting and beckoned him to lower the window. Mark complied.

“Mr Mark sir, all our paperwork is good but they need to see your passport?  You have this yes?” asked the driver.

“Yes it's here, why though?” Mark responded.

“So we can board ferry, just a security check like in airport.”

“Right.” Mark handed the passport to the driver who showed it to the guard. “All okay?”

“Yes excellent.” Mark's passport was returned. “We board ferry now for Tórshavn. You can sleep in cabin if you like, Elisabeth has paid for it.”

Tórshavn - it was a place name that Mark had vaguely heard of somewhere but the memory was hazy to say the least. With very little mobile signal, Mark couldn't search the internet for detail. It was certainly different to being in Whitburn. The car boarded the ferry, and once a parking spot had been acquired: driver opened the passenger the door and escorted Mark to a state cabin room.

“You rest here Mr Mark, I will call for you when we are near Tórshavn. There's fruit and some drinks for you if you feel hungry or I can get you some Skerpikjøt with some rye bread if you like.”

“What's Skerpikjøt  when it's about?” Mark enquired, a puzzled look across his face.

“Skerpikjøt is a traditional dish of ours, I think you call it sliced mutton. With rye board, you could call it a, er, sandwich.”

“Yeah whatever.”

At that point, the driver left the cabin and Mark flopped himself on the bed: eyes towards the ceiling. What had Simon done, and more so immediately: where was Tórshavn for that matter? The pieces of the puzzle weren't exactly locking into place at the moment. Mark just hoped they would do, and sooner rather than later. Simon Dell had some serious questions to answer.

The alarm clock went off at 05:00 hours.

Mark was used to waking early, normally at 04:30 to do his postal delivery duty so waking half an hour later represented a bit of a lie-in for him. He still had no idea why Simon had got him booked on a flight to Cppenhagen. It all appeared so mysterious, very cloak and dagger.

He approached the SAS check-in desk at Edinburgh Airport at 6:00am, showed his passport and checked in his luggage. Mark put his earphones on, the sounds of AC/DC flooding in for his listening pleasure. But Mark couldn't sit still for a minute, he was completely on edge and spent time pacing up and down to departure lounge much every other passenger's strange look. Another glance at the departure board, Mark's umpteenth in a short space of time, showed the flight was delayed by 15 minutes. Reason: problems with the fuelling.

Eventually, Mark and his fellow Copenhagen-bound passengers boarded the flight. Mark's seat was at the rear of the aircraft, at the window on the right hand side. He didn't talk to anyone on the flight, bar the air steward when presented with his in-flight meal. Two and a half hours later, the aircraft landed in Copenhagen and Mark couldn't wait to disembark. He hated flying, full stop even when he went on summer holidays with his mates. Collecting his suitcase from the carousel, Mark made his way through the airport complex whilst looking for any indication of what was happening.. Then he saw a man, smartly dressed with a grey suit, white shirt and a chauffeur's peaked cap.

“You are Mr Pearce?” came the inquisitive voice.

Mark nodded in the affirmative.

“I have come to collect you, We must drive away for the ferry, Elisabeth has arranged it.”

“Who's Elisabeth?” Mark asked.

“My boss, friend of Mr Simon. Come quick please, we cannot hesitate.”

“Whatever you say pal. I just want to know what's going on.”

“Nothing to worry over. Elisabeth will tell you when we arrive.”

“Right.”

Mark was still baffled. Who was Elisabeth, and what connection did she have with Simon Dell? Questions remained unanswered, still. 

Football, the beautiful game.

It was the only thing that interested Mark Pearce.

As a young boy growing up in the streets of Whitburn, a small town 22 miles west of Edinburgh, all Mark wanted to do was to kick a ball about with his three brothers and school pals. The Pearce boys lived there with their parents John “Jock” Pearce, a postman, and their mother Anne who was a stay at home housewife by day and part-time office cleaner in the evenings. It was a happy childhood.

They grew supporting Celtic and Sunderland just like Dad, and his forefathers before him. Mark was the gifted one of the four, a technically gifted but tricky right winger with blistering pace and provider of assist after assist in his school team. His impressive displays caught the eye of scouts representing both Glasgow giants Celtic and Rangers as well as the two big Edinburgh sides: Hearts and Hibernian. Even sides south of the border were watching him closely too, Middlesbrough, Hull City and West Ham United were keen to prise the boy away from Scotland.

But Mark only wanted to sign for one of them, and pull on the famous green and white hoops - making his faither (as he called him) a very happy man indeed.

However, fate would deal a cruel hand one day in 1999. In a game for Celtic Boys against their Rangers counterparts, Mark was speeding down the wing with Celtic leading 3-0, and getting ready to whip in another dangerous for one of his centre forwards to run onto and ideally convert. Then he pulled up sharply and seconds later, collapsed onto the turf with nobody near him. There was a sound of a rifle going off, Mark screamed in absolute agony. His team mates looked on in distress, his Rangers opponent swiftly put the ball out of play: knowing this was a serious injury unfolding. With seconds a stretcher was on the pitch, and an ambulance radioed for us. “Jock” Pearce stood on the sidelines, powerless.

Mark was rushed to the Southern General Hospital, and prepped immediately for emergency surgery. Whilst the surgery to repair Mark's shredded Achilles Tendon was successful, there was unfortunately more damage which culminated in the surgeon telling Mark and his parents that his football career was as good as finished with. Mark blubbed his eyes out, what else could he do? He did his GCSE's, getting top grades in every subject whilst assessing his now re-mapped out future. It was then when Jock stepped up once more, getting Mark a job on deliveries with him as soon as his schooling had finished with whilst getting time to study for his A-Levels at West Lothian College.

Although his professional career was over, Mark played amateur football for Whitburn Junior and started to take his coaching badges to keep his footballing interest well and truly piqued. He started coaching kids and Sunday League sides, and it was being noticed by others. Then one phone call changed everything again, it came from his old school friend Simon Dell:

“Mark, grab yourself a suitcase with clothes ready. Got you on a flight to Copenhagen in the morning, someone I know will be meeting you there.”

“What for?” Mark enquired.

“A football related job. Time to leave Scotland and pounding those streets mate."

“Eh?”

“Just be on that 0830 flight tomorrow morning, that's all.”

Intrigued, Mark wondered what next.

For some unkmnown reason, my previous saves aren't behaving as they should so I'm going back in time to Football Manager 2020 and ideally bring you a new career save: 

A Scotsman Abroad: The Career of Mark Pearce

As always, we won't start with an established club side: in fact we're starting very obscure indeed as you are going to find out.

So, let's get this show on the road.

Yours,

HockeyBhoy

PS: The name Mark Pearce was created using my own first name and my Mam's maiden name.

Episode 20: Dun and Dusted

Ted knew the importance of the win against Motherwell, it meant a lot even at this early stage of the new season. Getting that first league win in just the second match of the season was a crucial statement, because nobody wants to be playing catch up on everyone else. For a rookie manager like Ted it meant the world, getting the proverbial monkey off the back as soon as possible.

The win, combined with results elsewhere, meant that the Buddies would rise three places in the league standings after two matches. Falkirk, the SPL newcomers, still headed the table but on goal difference from defending champions Celtic.

Saturday would bring a change in competition, the second round of the Premier Sports Cup where fellow SPL side Dundee would travel to Paisley. For Ted, it was a chance to try and build some momentum before the next league match seven days later. After all, winning breeds confidence - a message that Ted preached like a seasoned manager to his charges. It was a philosophy that all Ted's managers and coaches had taught him from those early days on the school pitches of East Belfast to the more luxurious surroundings of the Ennio Tardini in Parma where he earned one of his 18 international caps. 

Stick or twist though as regards team selection was the real dilemma though. Keep an unchanged and winning line up or make a few changes to keep players fresh for bigger challenges on the horizon? Ted had to make that call, and with a fully fit squad to choose from. 

St Mirren 1 - 0 Dundee

Saturday 16 August 2025

Attendance: 4775

SMISA Stadium, Paisley

After much deliberation in the build up to the game, Ted decided on a trio of changes to his starting eleven. Scott Tanser came in for Declan John at left back, Killian Phillips was in the midfield engine room at the expense of Keanu Baccus whilst Jamaican forward Jaimaro Calvin started up front alongside Mikaёl Mandron as Ted looked to find the perfect striking combination. The three replaced players all dropped to the bench as a result. Formation-wise, Ted once more went with the conventional 4-4-2 wing play which would change to a 4-4-1-1 when the Dark Blues were in possession. 

1 - George

       2 - Richardson           13 - Gogić               22 - Fraser              3 - Tanser

10 - McMenamin           6 - O'Hara  ©               88 - Phillips               7 - Idowu

17 - Calvin            9 - Mandron

Substitutes: 4 - Donnelly, 31 - Mullen (GK), 14 - Nlundulu, 11 - Ayunga, 24 - John

8 - Devaney, 25 - Baccus, 5 - King, 29 - Etete

The new look strike force almost paid dividends inside 90 seconds, Calvin threading a superbly weighted pass to Mandron who broke the Dundee offside with ease. However, the Frenchman was denied his goal by a smart save from Jon McCracken. Dundee's first chance also almost brought them a goal too when a right wing corner was headed goalbound by Simon Murray but Tanser was in the right position for Ted's and his team  to hook the ball from on the goal line just and frustrate the Dark Blues centre forward who was already running away in celebration.

In the 25th minute, the home side had their goal: one that would stand up in the final analysis as the actual match winner. It stemmed from a throw deep inside the Dundee half taken by Tanser. The left back played a number of passes with Roland Idowu before standing up a cross to the far post where an unmarked Colin McMenamin connected to loop a header across McCracken and into the far corner of the net. Saints should have had a second in the second half; Mandron latching onto a loose bit of play by the visitors but skewing his effort wide of goal with McCracken untroubled.

So a second win for Ted, and a place in the quarter-finals. Who would they face? The draw would be made later that afternoon.

Next Episode: Teddy Bear TV

Episode 19: Home Comforts

It had been a fortnight since Ted had taken the St Mirren managerial vacancy, and left Northern Ireland for Paisley, Renfrewshire. He had been living out of a suitcase in a hotel, bills covered by the Club, whilst he (Ted) searched for a property that he could call home as home. That changed on the Monday as he received a call from a local-ish estate agent advising that a property had become available, and would Ted be interested in a viewing. Since the team weren't training as they had played just 24 hours previously at Parkhead, Ted gleefully said yes.

The property was on Kenley Road in Renfrew, a short drive away from Paisley. It was also just off King's Inch Road and the nearby Braehead Shopping Centre which was handy as there was a large Sainsbury's supermarket in close proximity. Ted didn't need the full hour to decide if he wanted to take the property, his mind was made up in just ten minutes. “When can I move in?” he asked the estate agent, who obviously thought the St Mirren chief was joking. This was far from a joke, Ted had found his ideal property, and he couldn't wait to get out of the Premier Inn and get the keys. 

The formalities were completed in double quick time, and by Thursday Sinead and baby Rocco had joined Ted in their new family home. It felt like a massive weight had been taken off Ted's shoulders with his little family next to him, and not having to make daily FaceTime calls to check all was good back home. He could now relax off the pitch. All this happened whilst preparing for a home league opener on the Saturday with Motherwell making the short journey to Paisley, a distance of 22 miles and one that took less than an hour to complete. As Ted arrived at the SMISA on matchday, he was greeted by Tommy Gibson whose face pictured sheer delight.

“Ted, just to let you know we've got a full house in the building this afternoon.” Gibson announced.

“Right.” Ted responded. “And?”

“As it's your first league match at home, they're ultra keen to see a winning start.”

“OK. No pressure on me and the Lads then?”

“Not really. Hope they've been training well.” Gibson chortled. 

“Dead on Tommy, I'll see you after the game.”

Talk about ramping up expectations. “I best get three points.” Ted said to himself as he made his way to the home dressing room where kit man Joe Hayes would be setting out the players equipment and Jock Jackson would be getting the magnetic tactics board ready. The players would be arriving in the next 15 minutes, Motherwell themselves shortly afterwards, Ted knew the importance of preparation, it was a key component to succeed as Unai Emery, especially, had drummed into everyone's heads. Emery was a serial winner, specifically in Europe, Ted would love to be successful as that.

St Mirren 2 - 1 Motherwell

Saturday 9 August 2025

Attendance: 8002

SMISA Stadium, Paisley

Following that opening day defeat at Celtic, Ted made just the single change to his starting line up. Killian Phillips was replaced by Dan Nlundulu and that also meant a tweak in formation too to accommodate the French-born former England Youth internationalist. The side had played 4-4-1-1 against the Champions and did all right but Ted felt that a standard 4-4-2 with wingers would be suitable for the Steelmen's visit; a philosophy that he thought might get a result against one of the sides who had equally mirrored visions of a top six finish.

1 - George

       2 - Richardson           13 - Gogić               22 - Fraser              24 - John

10 - McMenamin           6 - O'Hara  ©               25 - Baccus               7 - Idowu

14 - Nlundulu             9 - Mandron

Substitutes: 4 - Donnelly, 31 - Mullen (GK), 17 - Calvin, 11 - Ayunga, 3 - Tanser

8 - Devaney, 88 - Phillips, 5 - King, 29 - Etete

If Ted hadn't realised that football was a game of fine margins, he knew it was after 15 minutes when the home side missed an absolute golden chance to take the lead. Nlundulu played a sweetly weighted pass that opened up the ‘Well defence and had Mikaёl Mandron one on one with Calum Ward, however somehow the Frenchman steered his shot wide of goal when it seemed odds-on to score. The Buddies were on top and had another good chance in the 41st minute when Jayden Richardson’s right wing cross was met by Mandron but this time, the effort sailed over the crossbar.

It was they say, Sod's Law, that Motherwell would take an unexpected lead and that they did a minute from half time. Former Ross County forward Regan Charles-Cook cut inside Richardson and slotted his effort home at Shamal George's near post. It was a goal reminiscent of what Daizen Maeda had scored just six days beforehand. Could the team pick themselves up and bounce back? Ted's half time talk was simple: keep doing the right things and good things will happen to you. Two minutes after half time, the reward came. A Colin McMenamin corner was flicked goalbound by Mandron and it was the skipper Mark O'Hara, leading by example, to arrive unmarked at the far post and head in the equaliser. All that set piece work in the week leading up to the game, it had worked a treat.

St Mirren continued to dominate, limiting Jens-Berthel Askou's Motherwell to absolute scraps. Ted keep encouraging his side that good things would still happen to them, and everyone was seemingly buying in. That included the substitutes Ted introduced from the bench. With three minutes left, Ted thought the team had gone ahead when another quality delivery from Richardson found substitute Phillips around the penalty spot and the Republic of Ireland internationalist sent a header arrowing towards the bottom corner until Ward somehow got to it and pushed it around the post. 

Six minutes of added-on time were displayed, who could find a last gasp winner? Well, in the fifth of those six, Ted and St Mirren were jumping with delightful glee as they scored the goal to give them a winning start of home. A fluid counter from inside their own half saw Mandron weight a pass into substitute Jonah Ayunga who diverted the ball first time into the on-rushing O'Hara, breaking from midfield, and sliding it past by the advancing Ward. The final whistle shrilled a short while later, and the SMISA celebrated jubilantly. First league win accomplished, time to try and build some momentum right?

Nest Episode: Dun and Dusted

Very detailed in every post.

However from a personal perspective, I feel like they're a bit too long in length. Could be broken down a bit.

Good luck with the career mind, be interesting to see what happens at the Arsenal for you.

Episode 18: Preparation Is Vital

After the opening day game at Parkhead had finished, Ted sat on his own in the corner of the away team dressing room. The players had left for the team coach, but Ted just wanted a few moments of self-contemplation before joining. He had now seen what the SPL was going to be like first hand, a tough assignment and if he was to achieve the club's ambition then he would have to take the rough with the smooth. He hauled himself up, started to walk towards the door but his path was being blocked by a man wearing a black Celtic tracksuit.

The figure in front of him was Celtic's Head Coach Martin O'Neill.

“Sit down Ted, can I have a few words with you before you leave tonight?” O'Neill asked.

“Er, of course Mr O'Neill.” Ted responded, with a tinge of surprise in his tone.

“Ted, call me Martin please. I just want you to know that I've been there as an unproven manager.”

Ted smiled back, and the two Northern Irishmen spent a good thirty minutes talking shop. Martin O'Neill knew what Ted was going through, the internal torture of a new and fresh manager making his way in the game after injury had curtailed his playing days. He had worked under Brian Clough, arguably the best ever English-born manager never to manage the national side, and Clough played the beautiful game as it should. That chat made Ted feel better, as a person and as a manager. Martin made some good points which Ted mentally noted, and it was good to hear from such a respected figure.

The next game was six days away, a first ever home league match. Motherwell were the opponents in waiting and they would be smarting after being hammered 6-1 on home turf by Rangers. They would want to put that behind them, and upset Ted's home league bow. It was up to Ted now to galvanise his squad and work out a plan that would give the Buddies the best home start possible. This was where good managers become great managers, and great managers become successful managers in terms of trophies won. If Martin O'Neill with his Cloughesque principles could be a success in football management circles despite having limited experience then Ted could do it too.

No pressure then.

Motherwell would need to be good to deny Ted that first league win, Ted was determined to start the home campaign with three points. But would he (Ted) achieve his objective? He would quickly find out…

Next Episode: Home Comforts

Note: Once the first month's fixtures are out of the way then I'm going to review the games monthly with some news “episodes” happening as they crop up in the gameplay.

Hope you're all enjoying this new look save, as much as I am enjoying putting it together.

Regards, 

Mark

Episode 17: Reality Check

Sunday morning came and for Ted, it was business as usual to start with. Wake up, shower and a spot of breakfast before going to Mass in the morning. It was a routine that Ted had, and had since his days back in Holywood. It would then be a case of meeting back up with everyone, backroom staff and players alike, to watch the Falkirk - Dundee United match before hopping on the coach and arrive at Celtic Park for a 4:30pm kick off.

The side had been picked in Ted's mind, he would announce the line up in the away dressing room so nobody knew who would be playing. Well, club captain Mark O'Hara was always going to be the first name on the team sheet unless he was injured or suspended. The formation also needed to be looked at, one that Ted hoped would subdue Celtic and give the Buddies the best chance of springing a shock result.

The lunchtime kick off from the Falkirk Stadium saw a turn up for the books as the Bairns marked their return to the top flight since 2010 with a win over the Terrors. And what a win it was as the Bairns thumped them 6-0 with Ben Broggio, on loan from Aston Villa, scoring twiice. It was a result that sent the Bairns to the top of the league standings unless other results would usurp them. As the St Mirren team bus turned off London Road and left into Kerrydale Street, Ted saw the throngs of Celtic supporters in party mood on Flag Day: a sight he had been part of numerous times growing up. There was simply thousands, all bedecked in green and white with green flares adding to the carnival atmosphere in Glasgow's East End.

Could Ted engineer something quite remarkable in his first ever League match??

Celtic 3 - 1 St Mirren

Sunday 3 August 2025

Attendance: 60363

Celtic Park, Glasgow

Ted decided to change from his successful attacking 4-4-2 formation which had produced eight goals and none conceded in the Premier Sports Cup, as he was looking to nullify the Champions on their big day. The Buddies would line up with a 4-4-1-1 formation when going forwards but that would revert to a 4-5-1 when in defensive mode. Ted was determined it was the only way he felt would contain the bigger sides but wasn't ultra defensive in parking the proverbial bus like some would do. His first line up was follows:

1 - George

       2 - Richardson           13 - Gogić               22 - Fraser              24 - John

10 -McMenamin           6 - O'Hara  ©               25 - Baccus               7 - Idowu

88 - Philips

9 - Mandron

Substitutes: 4 - Donnelly, 31 - Mullen (GK), 17 - Calvin, 11 - Ayunga, 3 - Tanser

8 - Devaney, 14 - Nlundulu, 5 - King, 29 - Etete

Any hope that Ted had of keeping the Champions quiet for the first 15 or 20 minutes was extinguished after 10 minutes when Celtic opened the scoring. It came just a couple of minutes after Jayden Richardson had headed an Auston Trusty effort off the line with Shamal George motionless.. Tenacious and experienced winger James Forrest created it when he had Declan John on proverbial toast and crossed for Benjamin Nygren to rise the highest and head into the top corner. Yet Ted felt heartened by the fact his side weren't overawed and were forcing numerous corners out of Celtic. One of those produced the equaliser in the second minute of first half added-on time which delighted Ted no end. Skipper Mark O'Hara whipped it in and although Kasper Schmeichel parried Mikaёl Mandron's header. Cameron Carter-Vickers' clearance went straight to Alex Gogić who poked home unmarked.

1-1 at the break, and maybe just maybe, Ted believed a surprise result was in the offing. Celtic brought on Kelechi Iheanacho for Sebastian Tounekti to give them more firepower, and push Daizen Maeda out wide left to test Richardson. It was a sign that Martin O'Neill was far from happy with his side's performance. However, the mercurial Northern Irishman was smiling again as the Bhoys scored twice in six minutes to complete a hard fought 3-1 win. With 20 minutes to go, Maeda played a one-two with Nygren before cutting inside Richardson and driving a low effort past George. 14 minutes remained when goal number three arrived for the Champions, Forrest with another accurate cross and Iheanacho spun Marcus Fraser before firing home an unstoppable effort from around the penalty spot. Game over..

Ted sympathised with the players post-game, they had done bloody well and had Celtic worried right up to those final 20 minutes. Positives drawn for sure. 

Elsewhere, Hibernian recorded a 1-0 win at Dens Park to see off Dundee in the Sunday 3:00pm kick off whilst their Edinburgh neighbours weren't in such a good mood in a Monday night game at Tynecastle. Visitors Aberdeen rode into town and left the capital city with three points as goals from Graeme Shinnie and former St Mirren striker Toyosi Olusanya secured the win. It was a result that had the home fanbase in anger but those Dons didn't care. With that, the league standings had the Buddies in ninth place after the opening game. Ted and St Mirren's next game was a home opener against Motherwell, and the rookie manager was hoping that the Steelmen would be equally as generous in conceding goals as they had been on Saturday against Rangers.

Well, one could hope and dream.

Next Episode: Preparation is vital

Episode 16: First Signing

Buddies complete Efete signing

Saints News / 3 August 2025

St Mirren have this afternoon completed the free transfer signing of defender Michee Efete.

The 28 year old defender, who can play either as a right back or right wing-back becomes the first signing for the Buddies since Ted Dog was appointed manager on 21 July, and has penned a two year deal with the Club.

Buddies manager Ted Dog had this to say about his acquisition:

"I am very pleased to welcome Michee to St Mirren, and as my first signing. Michee is a versatile right sided defender who will provide us with some excellent cover for Jayden (Richardson) which I felt we lacked.

He has experience in playing in the Scottish Premier League which is also a bonus.

He wants to be here and that's always a massive plus when you sign a player. Whilst his signing has come through too late to feature today against Celtic, he will train with us on Tuesday, and I expect him to fit in with our plan."

The new signing echoed his new manager's sentiments:

"I am very pleased to sign today for St Mirren. As soon as the gaffer spoke to me, I knew straight away that I had to sign. He (Ted) is a manager with great potential and can only take this club to new heights.

I just cannot wait to get started."

The former Grimsby Town and Ross County has been handed the number 23 jersey for the season ahead..

Next Episode: Reality Check

Episode 15: Squad Numbers

As Ted relaxed in the hotel, he suddenly got a call from Jock. Surely not a last minute injury or two which would cause a rethink of plans?

“Ted, forgot to mention. We need to fax over our squad number list to the SPL. Meant to do it Friday lunchtime and now they're badgering me for it.” Jock stated.

“You know who wears what Jock, go with that.” Ted replied.

“OK, what about the prospective new lad though?”

“We'll assign him his if he signs, don't worry about that.”

“Right oh, am on it. See you tomorrow.”

“No problem.”

One less task to do, but it would be a task Ted would have to do himself some time anyway. Jock sent the list, and forwarded Ted the list for reference as he would need it for when it came to filling in tomorrow's team sheet. It read as follows:

St Mirren Squad Numbers for Season 2025-26

GOALKEEPERS

1 - Shamal GEORGE (on loan from Wycombe Wanderers)

27 - Peter URMINSKY

31 - Ryan MULLEN

DEFENDERS

2 - Jayden RICHARDSON

3 - Scott TANSER

5 - Richard KING

13 - Alex GOGIĆ

21 - Miguel FRECKELTON

22 - Marcus FRASER

24 - Declan JOHN

MIDFIELDERS

4 - Liam DONNELLY

6 - Mark O'HARA

8 - Jacob DEVANEY (on loan from Manchester United)

16 - Allan CAMPBELL

20 - Jake YOUNG

25 - Keanu BACCUS

88 - Killian PHILLIPS

STRIKERS (INCLUDING WINGERS)

7 - Roland IDOWU

9 - Mikaёl MANDRON

10 - Conor McMENAMIN

11 - Jonah AYUNGA

14 - Dan NLUNDULU

17 - Jaimaro CALVIN

18 - Malik DIJKSTEEL

29 - Kion ETETE (on loan from Cardiff City)

Next Episode: First Signing

Episode 14: The season starts

After the proverbial dust had settled on the 2-0 Premier Sports Cup match against Clyde, Ted started to formulate a plan for the opening game of the season which was eight days away. The Buddies had been given probably the toughest assignment possible, an away trip to Champions Celtic. The league flag would be hoisted and a virtual full house would be in attendance. The whole stadium would be in a celebratory mood, and naturally they would be expecting a home win to go along with it to crown the day. Ted had liked what he had seen with the 4-4-2 formation in the Hamilton and Clyde but was deliberating a tweak for the Celtic game. Do I flood the midfield and try to snaffle Celtic or do we match them a 4-2-3-1? Decisions, decisions for sure.

Another decision he had to make was about the club captaincy for the season ahead. This was a no brainer though, an easy decision to make. Ted thought the sensible choice was to keep Mark O'Hara and Marcus Fraser in their roles as captain and vice=captain respectively. It would keep the harmony. O'Hara was also though, one of those players who was out of contract at the end of the season and had apparently not decided whether or not to agree a new deal. Ted thought it this way, maybe if we are in a good place in December then we might be able to talk him into extending his stay in Paisley. The same would apply to others, it would be foolish to discuss now so early into Ted's tenure.

As for new faces, Ted was still a downbeat that the work permits for the Spanish and German strikers had been rebuffed as had the loan move for Bojan Radulovic of Huddersfield Town. Surely the SPL was a better standard than League One? Well, Ted thought so. Anyway undeterred, Ted decided to make another enquiry and an audacious one at that. bringing in Jayden Danns from Liverpool on a season long loan? He spoke with the player on the Sunday, and much to Ted's delight - Danns gave Ted the green light. He would be really open to the move. Could Ted pull it off though?

Danns travelled up to Paisley on Wednesday morning, a good sign? Whilst the team were training, Gerry Docherty was completing a medical with him. Ted awaited the result, and like any decent manager: was pacing up and down as if he was determined.  As the squad finished training, and headed into the warm climes of the training ground's canteen for some lunch, Ted was called into Gerry's room with no sign of Danns.

“Gerry, where is he?” Ted enquired.

“Ah, he's away back down Merseyside Ted.” Gerry replied, with a sigh.

“What? We not good enough for him or something?”

“No, it's not that Ted. He was excited to come here, but he's failed his medical so it makes sense to call the deal off.”

“Baws, but fair. I'm going to keep a close eye on him though, he's a star in the making if he can get over these medical problems.”

“Agreed, he would have lit up the SPL I'm sure.”

Another blank in the transfer market, but Jock had hinted we might also need an extra body or two in defence. He had a player in mind, and one that had played in the SPL before which piqued Ted's interest further. Useful. Player was also without a club. Ticks another box." So Ted picked up the phone and got in touch with his prospective first signing. They talked for ten minutes, and Ted came off it smiling. Personal terms agreed. Medical booked for Sunday lunchtime before the team set off for Parkhead. Hopefully this time, Ted said to himself with his eyes skyward. 

The season started on the Saturday, and Ted decided to spend it watching Soccer Saturday instead of actually to going one of the two games that were being played. Kilmarnock were entertaining Livingston, whilst Motherwell hosted Rangers at Fir Park. At Rugby Park, the home side were 2-0 down in the first six minutes but would come off with a point thanks to a couple of very, very late goals from Marley Watkins two minutes from time and then scoring a penalty in the third minute of additional time through Aaron Tshibola. Rangers had no problens though in their supposed difficult opener against the ‘Well, scoring four times in the first 34 minutes! James Tavernier started the scoring with a 12th minute spot kick which brought a rueful smile from Ted before a Nedim Bajrami with two and Youssef Chermiti scored in a five minute spell that ended the contest as a match. Bajrami completed a hat-trick in the 63rd minute before Tavernier scored their sixth two minutes from the end. Luca Ross scored the only goal for the 'Well.

Standards already set. Ted though was still mulling over that formation decision. What would be best? Last thing Ted wanted was an opening match humilation, in fact a draw would be just as good as an away win, he thought. But it wouldn't be easy, especially at the home of the current title holders.

Next Episode: Squad Numbers

Episode 13: Clean sheet number two and more

Ted hadn't seen the arrival of Nicky Butt on the scene coming, it really surprise him as much it did everybody else in Paisley. Well, everyone but Tommy Gibson who had orchestrated it behind the scenes. When Ted informed the players at training, it seemed to give everyone on that training an extra spring in their proverbial step. Butt watched from a distance, it was his remit to find and develop St Mirren's own version of the “Class of 92” not to interfere with the first team: that was Ted's role. However it was an intriguing decision all the same.

Ted felt the Club needed a bit more depth, up front and in central defence but it was the age old problem of trying to find players to take that step in their careers and play in the SPL. St Mirren, despite last season's  sixth placed finish didn't have the “pull” that Celtic and Rangers  had and certainly not the finances of those two either. In fact, the Club's record transfer fee paid out was a mere £400K for Thomas Stickroth, and that was 36 years ago. Ted would have to find bargain basement signings, freebies and make use of the loan system if he was to achieve and maybe exceed Tommy Gibson's expectations. The striking options were definitely a priority as only one player last season managed double figures in terms of goals and that player had departed for pastures anew before Ted's arrival. 

Even in his short tenure, Ted had identified a couple of players that might help. Both were free agents and their wage demands weren't too excessive either which made it financially viable for the Club but since Brexit then even EU players had to gain work permits to ply their trade. Whether either signed would be down to the Department of Employment and their criteria.

As the players left training, Ted beckoned Jock over who was picking up the cones.

“Jock, I'm gonna make changes for Saturday's match mate.”

“Really, after a 6-0 win?” Jock replied, with a hint of surprise in his tone.

“Yeah, I want to see some of the others in action. See if any cause me a reason to pick them over whose I think are shoe-ins.”

“Like your thinking Ted.  How many changes you thinking of?”

“Dunno. Maybe three or four. Could be wholesale. Whoever I pick, I'm sure they'll be keen to impress.”

“Absolutely.”

Saturday came, and it was game day.

St Mirren 2 - 0 Clyde

Saturday 26 July 2025

Attendance: 4717

SMISA Stadium, Paisley

When Ted said he was planning changes for the Premier Sports Cup game against Clyde, he meant changes. In fact, he made a total of seven changes from the side that scored six second half goals at Broadwood on Tuesday. Only Jayden Richardson, Keanu Baccus, Conor McMenamin and Roland Idowu retained their spots with club captain Mark O'Hara and his deputy Marcus Fraser rested, experienced left-back Scott Tanser took the captain's armband. The starting line up to face the Bully Wee was as follows: Mullen - Richardson, King, Freckleton, Tanser © - McMenamin, Phillips, Baccus, Idowu - . Substitutes named were: Donnelly, Urminsky (GK), Dijksteel, Mandron, Devaney, Young, Nlundulu, Fraser, Campbell.

Predictably, the Buddies were in the ascendancy from the first whistle to last with Clyde thankful to goalkeeper Brian Kinnear for making a series of saves to prevent the home side running up yet another hatful of goals. The opener came after minutes when an attacking run from Richardson saw him pick out Idowu who drove a low effort across Kinnear and into the far corner. The win was secured nine minutes from time when some tricky wing play from substitute Dan Nlunduly place a cross onto the head of fellow substitute Mandron who headed in his fourth of the season past the exposed Kinnear.

As Ted and his players celebrated the win in the players lounge, the draw was being made live on the tournament sponsor's TV channel following the conclusion of the game Inverness Caley Thistle's match with Livingston which they had been screening. The draw pitted St Mirren against a fellow Premiership side in Dundee which wasn't what Ted or the home side wanted, as they were harbouring ambitions of a minimum quarter-final spot. That same draw saw holders Celtic given at home to Ayr United whilst there were three more all-Premiership ties as Hearts host near neighbours Livingston, Rangers face a difficult prospect at Fir Park; Motherwell; and Premiership newcomers Falkirk host Aberdeen. 

There was a bit more disappointment for Ted on the transfer front too. Work permits had been turned down for both the Spanish and German strikers he had hoped to sign either of, whilst English League One side Huddersfield Town had declined a season-long loan offer from the Buddies for their Serbian striker Bojan Radulovic. To compound matters, skipper O'Hara said he was going to consider his options at the end of the season when his contract expires leaving Ted feeling a bit deflated but this is the world of professional sports and football management in general. He knew now what he had gotten himself into it, it would be a ride with plenty of bumps for sure.

Next Episode: The season starts

Episode 12: Ex-England International arrives in Paisley

Ted was a very happy man indeed, as his first ever competitive match as a football manager had ended in a win: a resounding one in the end. Granted it took the Buddies 61 minutes to open the scoring, but once the floodgates did open - they opened with absolute freedom. Six nice goals scored and it could have been much more convincing if they had converted more of the 32 shots they had on the Accies goal. It could have been double figures easily Ted told the players in that away team dressing room post-game, although it would have been something else to top the 15-0 club record victory against Glasgow University in January 1960.

Job done though. Back on the training ground in the morning.

So that following morning saw the bright sunshine beam over the Ralston Training Complex where the team would prepare for Saturday's match at home to Clyde. Before the players arrived, Ted sat down with his number two, Jock Jackson and together they looked at August's fixture list. It read as follows:

Sunday 3 August 2025 - Celtic (Away)

Saturday 8 August 2025 - Motherwell (Home)

Saturday 23 August 2025 - Rangers (Home)

Saturday 30 August 2025 - Hibernian (Away)

Not the easiest start to life in the league for Ted, an away trip to the current Champions of Scotland: Celtic. The Bhoys were looking for their fifth Premier Division crown in a row, but the Buddies have had a few decent results in recent times against them so who knows? The middle Saturday of the month had been scheduled for the Second Round of the Premier Sports Cup of which the draw would be made after the final stages of the grouping, but following that was another huge match as the other half the “Glasgow Big Two” arrive at the SMISA and live on Sky Sports as well. Ted looked it and gulped:

“That's not easy Jock. How many points you think we will get from those four eh?” Ted enquired.

“Absolutely bang on with that assessment Ted, no easy.  I think we can get something against the ‘Well and mebbes sneak a point in Leith. But to have both Celtic and Rangers in the first three matches, that’s tough. Real tough.” Jock responded, a sigh in his tone.

“Hopefully the lads won't need motivation for those games.”

“nope, wouldn't need it maself Ted. Would love to feature in one of those games.”

“Aye me too Jock, me too. Anyway let's get set 'em up for training. The Lads will be due in half an hour or so.”

Ted and Jock had just briefly exited the manager's office at Ralston, when Tommy Gibson halted their progress. There was a familiar face at his side, a face that Ted was trying to picture:

“Guys, this is Nicky. He's our new Head of Youth Development.” Tommy stated.

“Nice to meet you.” Ted and Jock responded in unison.

Then the name appeared in Ted's head. the new Head of Youth Development was one of the “Class of '92”:. Nicky, as in Nicky Butt! The ginger hair faded but it was Nicky Butt alright, a player almost 400 games in the red of Manchester United and 39 times capped by the Three Lions. A player of pedigree.

“We felt you kind of needed some international experience in the background Ted, so Nicky was the perfect candidate.” Tommy announced to the pair.

“Er, yeah.” Ted replied, nervously.

“Anyway you can get out on the training pitch Ted with Jock. Was just hoping we'd catch you first. I'll continue showing Nicky around.”

“See you around.” Nicky smiled, and waved at Ted and Jock as they walked through a set of double doors to the 4G training pitch.

Nicky Butt, just wow! Ted just felt star struck, well it's not every day you meet a six-time Premier League and UEFA Champions League winner is it? What is gonna happen next? Life is full of surprises for sure.

Next Episode: Clean sheet number two and more

Episode 11: Goals, goals and yet more goals

Ted clambered out of a Black BMW on a sunny Monday morning to meet his backroom and the players for the first time ever as the new manager of St Mirren Football Club. At 23, he was younger than his Club Captain Mark O'Hara which concerned Ted in his own mind, but O'Hara assured him it made no different whatsoever.

Assistant Manager Jock Jackson was the first person to actually make the acquaintance of  Ted, introducing him to the rest of the back room as well as O'Hara and vice captain Marcus Fraser. Ted didn't want to make any wholesale changes immediately, he wanted to give everyone a fair crack of the proverbial whip and that included the back room staff in the same equation. That first session gave Ted a good idea of what he had to deal with, however his first team choice would be purely based on what he had seen on the training pitch. The tactic would be a bog standard 4-4-2 for this and Saturday's match against Clyde but Ted was thinking that either 4-2-3-1 or a 4-1-3-1-1 might be his preferred formation going forwards. It would basically be a case of finding the right pegs to fit the right roles to be fair to Ted.

So Tuesday evening came around quickly, and The Buddies made the 26 mile journey north west to Cumbernauld to take on the Accies. Could they start the new regime with a win; which would literally secure them a place in the Second Round stage of the Premier Sports Cup? Ted was to find out….

Hamilton Academical 0 - 6  St Mirren

Tuesday 22 July 2026

Attendance: 1239

Broadwood Stadium, Cumbernauld

Ted went with the following line-up his first game as a football manager: George - Richardson, Fraser, Gogić, John - Dijksteel, O'Hara ©, Baccus, Idowu - McMenamin, Ayunga. The substitutes were: King, Mullen (GK), Phillips, Etete, Donnelly, Tanser, Mandron, Devaney, Campbell.

Hamilton kicked off on a pleasant evening, and much to Ted's surprise: the score was goalless at the half time whistle despite the Buddies having clear control over their hosts. Ted made a switch at the break, taking off Dutch winger Malik Dijksteel and bringing on Mikaёl Mandron with Conor McMenamin moving wide as the former Sunderland replacement partnered Jonah Ayunga up front. Just before the hour, Ted made two more changes, one of which was Kian Etete on his Buddies debut. Would the newcomer have an impact if introduced from the bench?

After 58 minutes with the scoreline still showing 0-0, Ted made a double change to try and break down the stubborn Accies. Off went Roland Idowu and Ayunga, on came Scott Tanser and for his debut: Etete. Within three minutes we had a goal, and Ted was running down the line in visions of José Mourinho as Mandron set up Etete to score a debut goal. Two more changes: in the 67th minute Liam Donnelly replaced Keanu Baccus and Jamaican centre half Richard King came on for Jayden Richardson in the 74th but Accies were still in this despite having their goal pummelled like a firing squad. King had only been on the pitch a matter of seconds when McMenamin forced home teenage centre back Lennon Lyons to divert a cross into his own net on the youngster's own debut. and 1-0 now became 2-0 to the Buddies.

That was the scene for the deluge that followed as the floodgates really opened for Ted and his team. Three minutes as a substitute and King thumped in a header past Josh Lane after a wicked delivery from skipper O'Hara. Mandron then scored in the 83rd and 84th minute to make it 5-0 before setting up Etete for his second of the evening three minutes from the end and complete the rout. The former Sunderland man had certainly made a mark in just 45 minutes, two goals and two assists so much he was deservedly named the Premier Sports Man of the Match. Ted walked down the tunnel, smiling away, it's easy this managerial lark eh; he chuckled to himself. 

Next Episode: Ex-England international arrives in Paisley

Episode 10: The hard work begins now..

Saturday 19 July 2025 marked a momentous day in Ted Dog's football lifestyle. It was the day, he became a football manager for the first time, the start of a new career. Ted knew he had to deliver results, consistently to prove to people like Tommy Gibson that their belief in hom was wholly justified.

The fact he was in a division that was the elite in that country, made it even more difficult. Fail to meet Gibson's demands in this initial two-year contract, could result in a return back to Holywood and prove oneselves all over again. Do well, and one's stock would rise. The division contained the big two from Glasgow, Celtic and Rangers, as well as the Edinburgh duo of Hearts and Hibs as well as the unpredictable ones of Motherwell and Aberdeen. So finishing in the top six would be a tough ask by anyone's chalk. But Ted had a steely determination, hardened from the tough streets of Belfast where nothing was given and had to be earned.  His first two games would be the remaining Group G games in the Premier Sports Cup. Saints had got one foot in the Second Round thanks to wins against Queen of the South and Queens Park, they just had to finish the job.

The first of those games would come just a few days after accepting the role, so much for easing yourself in. It would be a trip to Cumbernauld to take on Hamilton Academical, a team that used to get unexpected publicity from the late Jimmy Greaves back in the day when the former Tottenham Hotspur and England striker was “On the Ball” with his sidekick Ian St John. Saturday would be Ted's first home game where Clyde would be the visitors.

After a short hop back to NI, Ted took his first ever training session on Monday. It was time to put into practice what Ted had learned at those coaching academies and what he had seen first hand from Unai Emery at Bodymoor Heath.

Next Episode: Goals, goals and yet more goals

Episode 9: Best Buddies

Having turned down Neil Warnock and Torquay United, Ted was closing in a new chapter in his footballing life. After the career ending injury, many would just given up on everything but not the boy from Holywood. He was determined to prove to every man, woman and their proverbial dog that there was more to Holywood than Rory McIlroy who was showing what he was capable of in the world of golf after completing the golf career Grand Slam earlier in 2025 with his win in the US Masters tournament in Augusta, Georgia.

Ted was his own man, and he wanted the world to know it.

After a couple of days in Birmingham, Ted arrived at Birmingham International Airport for a short flight to Glasgow International. It was only an hour, so it felt like you were up one minute and down in the blink of an eye. No time for an in-flight meal, just a power nap to focus oneself ahead of meeting up with Tommy Gibson. Knowing that Ted knew very little about Glasgow, Gibson had arranged for the young Northern Irishman to be collected from the airport and brought to the SMISA Stadium in Paisley where they would watch the Premier Sports game against Queens Park together before sitting down to discuss the managerial vacancy there. 

Ted familiarised himself again with “The Buddies” results so far in their pre-season, each one of them said the same thing…WIN! Three away matches against Loughgall, Cove Rangers and Buckie Thistle with eight goals scored and just two conceded. Former Sunderland man Mikaёl Mandron had been the danger man with six of those said eight. That set them up for their first Premier Sports Cup Group game in Dumfries, live on the sponsors TV channel of the same name. They won that one too, 3-1, thanks to a brace from Jonah Ayunga and the other from Northern Ireland internationalist Conor McMenamin. Now Ted was going to see them live in the flesh against a Queens Park side that were no strangers to causing surprise results, they had won 1-0 at Ibrox last season in the Scottish Cup, a result that caused the Gers to dispense with the services of Philippe Clement not long afterwards.

With Ted watching in the directors box, sat alongside Gibson, Saints made it five from five with a 2-0 win. Both the goals came in the second half, Jahmalo Calvin and that man Mandron again on target against a Spiders side that had Michael Collie dismissed just before the hour. Ted was impressed, the team seemed to have a great team work ethic which resonated with how Ted felt how the beautiful game should be played. They looked the perfect fit to be honest, but would Gibson's pitch match it? The Buddies director outlined this:

Stadium: SMISA Stadium (Capacity 8000)

Division: Scottish Premiership

Expectation: Top half finish

Offer: £2.2K a week on a 2 year contract

Transfer Budget: £100K

Previous Incumbent: Stephen Robinson

Whilst the wage was slightly less than what Walsall were offering, Ted felt attracted to The Buddies. Paisley was closer to Northern Ireland and the family, and there was the incentive of pitting one's wits against the Glasgow “Big Two” (Celtic and Rangers). With a bit of luck the squad could challenge for European qualification which also would not be achievable with Walsall in their current situation and not for a number of seasons at least. St Mirren wanted Ted, and didn't care for his age and lack of managerial experience. They saw potential in him, someone who they saw as a project and could grow with. 

“So you have heard what we can offer and want Ted, what do you think?”

“I like it. Like it a lot.” Ted replied with an air of confidence.

“Well the job's yours if you want to take it. Your call.”

“I accept. You have a deal Tommy.”

And the two men shook hands, Ted Dog was to become St Mirren's new manager. He would meet the players on the Monday following a short trip back across the water to see everyone. Ted called Benjamin Boycott and Stewart Donald whilst sitting in the airport lounge, informing each of what he had decided to do. Both men wished him the best, no bad feelings. 

Now the realisation was about to hit home. Ted Dog, football manager - it had a nice feel to it. Time to show the footballing world this was one former footballer not destined to be a managerial flop. St Mirren had a manager that had ambitions of being a success, would everyone buy in though?

Next Episode: The hard work begins now..

Episode 8: Saddling Up?

After demolishing an all you can eat breakfast in his hotel, Ted checked out of the Premier Inn and made his way back to Bristol Temple Meads for a journey to the Second City where he would meet up with Walsall co-chairman Benjamin Boycott over the vacant position there. Regardless, he would also be calling Neil Warnock to advise that he would be declining the offer from the Gulls as good as Warnock had sold him it.

The train pulled into New street station with that fine rain coming down, that kind of rain that isn't a downpour but is incessant enough to probably give you an absolute soaking. Ted disembarked the carriage, and slowly made his way onto the upper level behind lots of frustrated commuters frustratingly chuntering away on their mobiles about delays here and there. He passed through the ticket checking barrier and stood there in the concourse, looking around like a bewildered tourist. There was no sign of Benjamin Boycott anywhere. Ted looked his smart watch, he was on time but the Saddlers co-chairman was being a bit tardy. Five minutes later, Ted felt a tap on his left shoulder and looked at the face of a clearly out of breath gentleman standing five metres in front of him. 

“Ted, I'm so sorry for my lateness.” said the voice in a distinct Canadian drawl. “It's not me, I'm usually early.”

“It's OK. You're Mr Benjamin Boycott I assume?” Ted responded in kind.

“Yes that's me, I am he. Call me Ben, please. Only my mother calls me Benjamin, it's way too formal for my liking.”

“Yeah sure Ben, I know that feeling: my mother calls me Theodore but I've usually done something wrong when she says it like that.”

The two gentlemen laughed in unison, and walked off in the direction of the close proximity of the Premier Inn where they would sit and talk for an hour and the Saddlers co-chairman made his pitch to the young Northern Irishman. In that conversation, Ted admitted to Boycott that he had met with Torquay and Eastleigh 24 hours previously but hadn't made his mind up and the upcoming trip to Paisley. The Canadian liked Ted's honesty in this admission, definitely a score of brownie points. Boycott's pitch was as follows:

Stadium: Pallet-Track Bescot Stadium (Capacity 11300)

Division: EFL League Two

Expectation: Respectable top half finish

Offer; £2.5K a week on a 2 year contract

Transfer Budget: £100K

Previous Incumbent: Mat Sadler

With that offer now on the table, the Black Country outfit had moved into pole position. Ted respectfully called Neil Warnock and politely declined the Yorkshireman's offer for the Gulls position. The wizened veteran didn't shout and bawl, which Ted thought he would, as he said he would do the same in Ted's position. The meeting with Walsall had been productive, and Ted made his towards the Leonardo Hotel which would be his base for the next two nights before the short flight from Birmingham to Glasgow on Saturday morning.

Like he had done before, Ted did his research. St Mirren had a tremendous 2024-25 season where they broke into the top six ahead of the more established Heart of Midlothian and famously had wins over Rangers home and away. They had started the new season well too with a win in their opening Premier Sports Cup group stage fixture. The squad looked decent as well.

But would they be a good fit for Ted? That was the question Ted needed answering his in his head.

Next Episode: Best Buddies

Episode 7: A wild Wednesday

So things had started to look up for Ted, four “interviews” for a potential rookie managerial post. Each of the four were in different positions and possibly with different demands to be met. Of the four, the one at St Mirren sounded an exciting proposition but surely they would be wanting someone with some serious managerial experience and not an unproven 23 year old lad from Northern Ireland.

Therefore it came to be on Tuesday teatime when Ted bade farewell for a few days to Sinead and Rocco, bound for a flight to Bristol from City Airport. He would stay overnight in the Avon city and then catch a train the following morning to Torquay where Neil Warnock would meet him and whisk him away to Plainmoor for a discussion over the position which had become vacant. Warnock had been looking after footballing operations for the Gulls in the interim as he had a farmhouse in the area, but didn't want to take it on permanently. With joint chairmen Michael Westcott and Mark Bowes-Cavanagh both out of the country, it was down to Warnock to find a permanent successor for the Devon-based National League South side.

As the Virgin Cross-Country train pulled into Platform 1 of Torquay railway station, Ted felt butterflies rise up in his stomach as the nerves started to kick in. He peered out of the window, and saw the unmistakable appearance of Warnock, hands in pockets, standing on the platform. The train drew to a halt, brakes screeching in the mild Torquayian air, and Ted pressed the button to open the carriage doors to alight with his case in his left hand. He stepped down on the platform, Warnock walked down to welcome him.

“Ted?” Warnock queried.

“Mr Warnock, yes that's me.” Ted responded, a tinge of nervousness in his tone.

“Stop being so bloody formal Ted, it's Neil.” 

“Sorry Neil, I was just trying to create a good starting impression.”

“It's okay son, I would have done the same. Anyway let's get to Plainmoor and talk shop. And no, Helen Chamberlain isn't in town…”

Ted laughed, Warnock laughed. So despite being the ogre type character that football portrayed him to be, Neil Warnock appeared to be a genuinely nice guy at all. They drove to Plainmoor and talked for a good hour. The outcome appeared to be positive, both parties smiled but Ted explained he couldn't make an immediate decision which Warnock understood.

Ground: Plainmoor (Capacity 6200)

Division: National League South

Expectation: Reach play-offs

Offer: £675 per week on a 2 year contract

Transfer Budget: £0

Previous incumbent: Paul Wotton

Warnock drove Ted back to the station, wished him the best and the two parted on good terms. “He's not a bad egg that Colin bloke.” Ted mumbled to himself as the former Sheffield United manager drove away but it was out of one car and into another as the driver sent by Stewart Donald to take him to Eastleigh turned up a few minutes. Ted got inside the black BMW and within minutes was swapping the seaside resort of Torquay and one potential offer for the Hampshire town of Eastleigh on the South Coast. At approximately 3:15pm, the car pulled into the main car park at the Silverlake Stadium where Stewart Donald was standing there waiting. Ted alighted the car, took his overnight case from the BMW's boot and walked towards Donald. 

“Afternoon Ted, I'm Stewart Donald. Sorry I have broken your holiday up a bit but this was really the only time I could fit it in. Welcome to Eastleigh.” Donald stated, as the two exchanged a warm handshake.

“It's fine Stewart, I suppose we all have to make sacrifices here and there." Ted responded, kindly.

“Absolutely Ted, you're so right. In this industry, it's never more truer words than that. Let's go into the boardroom and talk things over.”

“Sure.”

The two headed into the annals of the Silverlake Stadium where Donald had laid on tea and cakes in the boardroom to make it feel less than formal and ease Ted's anxiety. Like the Warnock discussion earlier that day, the two talked for a good hour where the former Sunderland AFC owner presented Ted with his offer, and it was considerably better than Warnock's which was understandable considering the step up in level. Donald presented the following:

Ground: Silverlake Stadium (Capacity 5000)

Division: National League

Expectation: Avoid the drop

Offer; £1.4K a week on a 2 year contract

Transfer Budget: £40K

Previous Incumbent: Scott Bartlett

The offer was more appealing than Warnock's for sure. Better wages, and with a bit of transfer funds chucked in for good measure. Eastleigh weren't one of the bigger names in the fifth tier, hence that's why Donald was wanting his potential new manager to keep the side in the division. As nice as Warnock had been, Torquay had to be out of the running. Could either Walsall or even St Mirren top Donald's offer? Guaranteed they might have better resources but would they want to take on a relatively newcomer to the managerial world? Ted thanked Stewart Donald for his time, and was driven back to the local railway station where he would catch a service to London Paddington. From there he would circumvent the Underground to London Waterloo and catch one more train; this time bound for Bristol Temple Meads and his hotel nearby. 

A good night's sleep was in order, tomorrow he would be bound for the Black Country and the third of four managerial consultations. A quick FaceTime call to Sinead and Rocco to check on their own wellbeing cleared his head, football was indeed not a calling for the faint hearted for sure. In fact, Ted was sure it wasn't this bad in his playing career at the Villa.

Next Episode: Saddling up?

Episode 6: A man in demand

The days passed like a toothache, long and painfully slow, as Ted awaited a reply from those clubs that Emily had contacted on his behalf. Still, it gave him time to keep the soccer school running smoothly as well as plenty of quality time with Sinead and wee Rocky. As he sat on his phone ringing, Ted started to think that maybe Emily had been right all along: he lacked that “E” word.

Experience.

He was just shy of his 23rd birthday, all his life mapped out in front of him. This could be a very long waiting game, then suddenly the strains of the Star Wars Imperial Death March sounded. Incoming call…

“Ted, it's Neil Warnock here at Torquay United. Wondered if you were able to come and see us on Wednesday morning at 10:00am here at Plainmoor.”

“Er, of course Neil. I'll get a flight booked.”

“No need, we'll sort that. You'll get something in the hour. See you Wednesday morning.”

That might be the break Ted thought, but as soon as Neil Warnock had ended his call then another one came through. Hotline, Ted chuckled to himself. 

“Hello?”

“Hi Ted, Stewart Donald here, I'm the chairman and owner of Eastleigh FC. Was just calling to see if you were still available?”

“Er yes, I am.”

“Could you come down to the Silverlake Stadium on Wednesday. Say around 3:00pm?”

“Sure, I'm on holiday in Torquay but I could come over. Don't know where Eastleigh is though.”

“Not to worry, I'll get someone to pick you at Torquay railway station at 11:30am and they'll bring you here. See you then.”

“Yeah OK, thank you. Looking forward to meeting you.”

Just like buses, Ted was now preparing himself for a couple of conversations that he hoped one would be fruitful. He explained to Sinead the current state of play and that he would be away from home for a day or two. Sinead looked at Ted, gave him a hug and whispered in his ear: “You got this babe." It was sweet verbal music to Ted, and he was about to call Emily when yet another call came through: a third in the space of ten manic minutes.

“Ted, Benjamin (Ben) Boycott here at Walsall. I'm sitting here with your resumé in hand. Just wondered what you're doing on Thursday at 11:00am?”

“Umm, nothing Benjamin.” Ted stuttered in reply.

“Good, if you can get to Birmingham New Street for that time. I'll meet you there and we can have a chat in the nearby Premier Inn. I've got one of their conference rooms booked so it'll be superb if you can attend.”

“Sure. I'll see you then.”

“Bye.”

After thinking the worst, things were definitely on the rise. Ted was about to start some research when the mobile went off again, a fourth inbound call. Who was this time?

“Hello, is that Ted Dog?”

“It is, and can I please ask who is calling?”

“Ted, oh I'm so pleased to get in touch. My name is Tommy Gibson and I'm the Director of Football at St Mirren.”

“Pleased to hear from you, Tommy. How can I help?”

“Just wondered if you were able to travel up to Paisley on Saturday. We have a Premier Sports Cup game at home to Queens Park at the SMISA and it would give us enormous benefit to have a chat with you and you can also watch the team in action as well. We're genuinely interested.”

“Absolutely, that would be good Tommy. I'll get to the SMISA for say, 12:30pm and ask for you?”

“That'll be just great. Hopefully you will like what we are going to put forward and we will like you in return.”

“Sounds good.”

Four phone calls in, and four potential offers coming through. Time to do some research.. As Ted trawled the internet, Emily called.

“Ted, Emily here. Just letting you know I'm still trying to get something for you.”

“Emily, actually you're a wee bit late to the party.” Ted laughed heartly. “I've had four approaches this fine day."

“Really? Go on.”

“I'm meeting Torquay United and Eastleigh on Wednesday, not at the same time obviously. Walsall on the Thursday and St Mirren on the Saturday."

“Wow, that's brilliant Ted. Just do your background checks on all, shows you're keen. And good luck.”

“Thanks.”

So with that in mind, Ted started his prep. It was certainly going to be a hectic few days, but ideally a productive one in the final analysis.

Next Episode: A wild Wednesday