Levein sacking has left many in the football world stunned. After a four-game losing streak, St Johnstone’s owner, Adam Webb, decided to part ways with the 59-year-old manager, despite his impressive performance in securing the team’s top-flight survival last season. This decision has sparked a mix of reactions from the fans and has left everyone wondering what the future holds for the Perth club.
Levein’s Time at St Johnstone: A Mixed Bag
During his tenure at St Johnstone, Levein managed to win 11 out of 39 games, a record that might not be impressive on paper but is still commendable considering the team’s position when he took over. With his vast experience in managing teams like Dundee United and Scotland, Levein brought a level of stability and tactical acumen that helped the team climb up the table.
However, it was not all smooth sailing for Levein. The team struggled to find consistency, and the recent four-game losing streak was the final nail in the coffin. Despite this, Levein maintained that the team’s performances were not as bad as the results suggested. “I do think the performances have been good. Results haven’t been as good as the performances,” he told BBC Scotland Sportsound.
Webb’s Influence on the Sacking
The recent change in ownership at St Johnstone, with Adam Webb taking over from Geoff Brown, might have played a significant role in Levein’s sacking. Webb, an American lawyer, has been open about his intentions to bring in his own team and make changes to the club’s structure. It seems that Levein was not part of his long-term plans.
“I think Adam was looking at the bigger picture,” Levein said. “I got on alright with him, but the priorities for me were about improving the squad and getting results. If you don’t get results, the chances are you lose your job, and that’s exactly what has happened.”
Levein’s Reaction to the Sacking
Despite the shock of being sacked, Levein has taken the news graciously. He emphasized that he has “no issues” with Adam Webb and understands the complexities of the football world. “I’ve been in this movie before, and no doubt I’ll be in it again, if I get back in,” he said, hinting at his willingness to return to management in the future.
The Future of St Johnstone
With Levein’s departure, St Johnstone is now looking for their third manager in the last 12 months. The club’s owner, Adam Webb, has announced that he will be taking medical leave in the coming weeks to undergo treatment for his cancer diagnosis. However, he has assured fans that he will lead the appointment of a new manager before departing.
Coaches Andy Kirk and Alex Cleland have taken interim charge of the team for the time being. The fans will be eagerly waiting to see who the new manager will be and how he will shape the team’s future.
The Impact of Levein’s Sacking on the Team
Levein’s sacking will undoubtedly have an impact on the team’s morale and performances. The players, who had grown accustomed to Levein’s tactics and leadership, will now have to adapt to a new manager and his style of play.
However, this change might also bring a fresh perspective and new ideas to the team. As the season is still young, St Johnstone has the opportunity to turn their fortunes around and make a push for the top six.
Webb’s Ambition for the Club
Adam Webb has expressed his ambition to take St Johnstone to new heights. He has stated that the club’s priority is to get into the top six and establish themselves as a premier league team. With the right manager and the right players, it is possible that St Johnstone can achieve this goal.
The fans will be watching with bated breath as the season unfolds to see if St Johnstone can turn their fortunes around and achieve their ambitions.
What’s Next for Levein?
Levein’s sacking from St Johnstone marks the end of an era for the 59-year-old manager. However, it is unlikely that this will be the last we see of him in management.
As he said himself, “I’ve been in this movie before, and no doubt I’ll be in it again, if I get back in.” Levein has a wealth of experience and a track record of success that makes him an attractive candidate for any club looking for a manager.
It will be interesting to see where Levein ends up next and how he fares in his future endeavors.
In conclusion, the Levein sacking has left St Johnstone and the football world reeling. While it was not entirely unexpected, it still came as a shock to many. As the season unfolds, it will be fascinating to see how the team responds to their new manager and if they can achieve their goals.