The Londoner was speaking to the media for the first time since being named Black Cats manager.
Incoming Sunderland manager Michael Beale defended his track record during his introduction, despite only being fired by Rangers two months ago.
Beale’s tenure at Ibrox ended in October after the Scottish Premiership giants failed to win a trophy or match Celtic this season despite a summer spending spree – with the 43-year-old insisting he had been pulled in a lot of different directions after replacing Gio van Bronckhorst. However, having been selected as Tony Mowbray’s replacement at the Stadium of Light, the Londoner is now on the search for promotion to the English Premier League.
The arrival of Beale has received a mixed response from The Black Cats’ support, and he was put on the spot about his exit from Rangers during his first press conference. Asked what fans should make of his arrival after his sacking in October, bullish Beale responded: “If you are going to work in football, work where it matters, where there is potential and expectation. I have arrived at a gigantic club.
“It took 20 plus years to get here. I did the hard yards at Chelsea and Liverpool and going to Brazil. I have worked with young players who have gone on to be the finest in this country. I have seen what elite looks like.
“I have had 300 games as an assistant manager in South America and the Premier League. I have played in European games. I have seen what there is to see.
“I stepped out on my own at QPR and everyone was in a positive way. I have come from a big club with lots of noise. Each job is different and you learn and grow. The players are the most important. I have to earn any credit.”
However, following his official unveiling English football league veteran Ian Holloway was left unimpressed. Holloway – who led the likes of Crystal Palace and Blackpool to the Premier League promise land – branded the boss “lucky” to land the job on Wearside.
He told Genting Casino: “I don’t know Michael Beale personally, but I know he has quite a big following and gets good jobs, even if he hasn’t done very well in his previous role. After losing his job in Scotland and ending up with the Sunderland one, he should count himself very lucky.
“I don’t think it’s an upgrade on Tony Mowbray. Tony was doing a fantastic job, he has been consistent and played good football with young squads. I think he’s a fantastic manager and I don’t think the position they were in the league was worthy of him losing the job. It seems strange.
“Does being Gerrard’s assistant make him (Beale) a top manager? I’m not sure.”
Be the first to comment