Hughton back in business!

Good luck Chris

In December Chris Hughton became the first Premier league manager to be axed during the season, following a 3-1 defeat to West Brom, a decision that was heavily criticised by fans and the media alike.

No-one was prepared for this as Hughton had seemingly been performing above what was expected of him, having had some great results and dwelling in mid-table (remember our target was survival).

Alan Pardew was quickly lined up as his replacement, and after some rather meek protests at the Liverpool game Chris was pushed to the back of everyone’s minds.

Chris had the chance to almost instantly be thrust back into the limelight after the West Brom managerial post became vacant. However after brief talks both parties agreed that it wasn’t in their best interests and Roy Hodgson appeared from virtually nowhere to become gaffer at the club. Rumours had also travelled the rounds that Hughton had been interviewed for both the Cardiff and West Ham jobs although nothing official was ever announced.

However Thursday brought with it the news that after long discussions with the board, Hughton had signed a deal with Birmingham City after being the bookies favourite for some time.

Chris briefly spoke to the BBC earlier: “I am absolutely delighted”.

“To be joining a club of the stature of Birmingham, with the history it has, is a pleasure”.

“We are going into an extremely competitive Championship and with the players set to return for pre-season training very soon I need to get into the job straight away.”

Also on the official Birmingham website Hughton stated: “For as long as I have been in football the name Birmingham City has been right up there and it is what I regard as a real football club with extremely passionate supporters.”

A man like Chris that dedicates himself to football was always going to be back in a job sooner rather than later. Thanks for the memories Chris, and all the best for the future!