Transfer talks have been dominating the headlines in recent days, and one of the most intriguing sagas is the potential departure of Peter Leven from Aberdeen to St Johnstone. As the Dons’ coach, Leven has been instrumental in the team’s success, but the lure of a managerial role at St Johnstone may prove too attractive to resist. Peter Leven, 41, has had a distinguished career as a player and coach, and his experience would be a valuable asset to any team.
For Aberdeen fans, the prospect of losing Leven is a daunting one. As a caretaker-boss on two separate occasions, Leven has shown his ability to lead the team to victory, and his presence on the coaching staff has been a calming influence. However, team boss Jimmy Thelin is keen to stress that Leven’s departure is not a done deal. “He has permission to talk with them,” Thelin said of Leven’s discussions with St Johnstone. “He’s a good coach and it’s good that our good staff get eyes on them.
Thelin’s Philosophy on Staff Development
Transfer Talks and Staff Development
Thelin’s comments highlight the importance of staff development in football. By allowing Leven to speak to St Johnstone, Thelin is demonstrating his commitment to helping his staff grow and develop their careers. This approach not only benefits the individuals involved but also creates a positive and supportive team culture. As Thelin noted, “when good people do good things, they get eyes on them.” This philosophy is essential in an industry where job security is often precarious, and opportunities can arise quickly.
Thelin’s approach is also reflected in the words of Aberdeen midfielder Leighton Clarkson. Clarkson has spoken highly of Leven’s influence on the team, praising his “knowledge of the game” and “the way he communicates with all the lads.” Clarkson’s comments demonstrate the respect that Leven has earned from the players, and it is little wonder that Thelin wants to keep him on board.
The St Johnstone Vacancy
St Johnstone is currently seeking a successor to Craig Levein, who was sacked after a run of four straight defeats. The team has had a difficult season so far, and the new manager will face significant challenges in turning their fortunes around. However, for Leven, the opportunity to take the reins and lead the team to success is a tantalizing one.
In addition to Leven, St Johnstone has also been speaking to Tiernan Lynch, the manager of Larne. Lynch has been in charge of Larne since 2017 and has achieved significant success, including back-to-back titles and qualification for the UEFA Conference League. His experience and expertise would be a valuable asset to St Johnstone, but it remains to be seen whether he is the right fit for the team.
A Crucial Decision for St Johnstone
St Johnstone’s decision on who to appoint as their new manager will be crucial in determining the team’s future success. With Leven and Lynch in the running, the team has two strong candidates to choose from. However, Thelin’s comments suggest that Leven’s departure is not a done deal, and it remains to be seen whether he will ultimately take the reins at St Johnstone.
The Wider Implications of the Transfer Talks
The transfer talks surrounding Leven and St Johnstone have implications that extend beyond the teams directly involved. The discussions highlight the importance of staff development in football and the challenges of retaining top talent. As Thelin noted, “it’s always a blow when you lose staff,” but he also recognizes that the departure of key personnel can create opportunities for growth and development.
The situation also highlights the risks and rewards of appointing a new manager. For St Johnstone, the appointment of a new manager is a crucial decision that will have significant implications for the team’s future success. However, for Leven, the opportunity to take the reins and lead the team to victory is a tantalizing one.
In the wider context of Scottish football, the transfer talks surrounding Leven and St Johnstone demonstrate the complexities and challenges of the industry. The situation highlights the importance of staff development, the challenges of retaining top talent, and the risks and rewards of appointing a new manager.
The Future of Scottish Football
The transfer talks surrounding Leven and St Johnstone are just one example of the complexities and challenges facing Scottish football. The industry is facing significant pressure to deliver success, and the stakes are high. However, as Thelin’s comments demonstrate, there is also a commitment to developing young talent and promoting from within.
The future of Scottish football is uncertain, but one thing is clear: the industry will continue to be shaped by the complex web of relationships and alliances between teams, players, and coaches. As the transfer talks surrounding Leven and St Johnstone demonstrate, the decisions made by teams and individuals have significant implications for the industry as a whole.