Does stability equal success?

As part of my investigation into whether stability equals success in football, I managed to get an interview with one of the longest-serving managers in the English game. Gordon Bartlett has been manager of Wealdstone FC for 18 years, and I was intrigued to know more about the advantages of staying at one club for so long. Gordon tackles this, plus the current climate of short-termism in football, the way to develop young players, and the best aspects of football management. 

You’ve been manager of Wealdstone FC for 18 years. In that time the club has come up the divisions, moved grounds, and gradually increased its’ attendances. How would you compare where the club was when you took over, to where it is now?

We were homeless, in administration, in Division 3 with only 3 players signed. An incredibly stronger position with our new home, debt free and challenging in the upper reaches of the Premier Division. We have built up a reputation of developing young players, playing attractive football and doing things in the right way. The new home at Ruislip has given us a heartbeat and the increased crowds along with promising performances on the pitch, really make me feel confident we are on the verge of something special over the next couple of seasons.

Does stability create success?

What are the main advantages of being in charge of one club for so long?

I suppose continuity, stability and trust are the main advantages. I am extremely proud of the foundations we have laid and the gradual progress we have made during my time at the club. Longevity gives you time to surround yourself with good honest people that you can trust and I could not have stayed in the job without the help and support of the management team, board and more importantly the incredible fans at Wealdstone. 

Are there any disadvantages?

I see familiarity as the main problem so a regular turn round of players is important to ensure things don’t go stale and remain nice and fresh.

62 of the 92 Football League clubs parted company with their manager last season. Should more clubs stick with their manager?

Without doubt. Too many clubs have a knee jerk reaction to a poor run of results. Clubs are often influenced by short term gains rather than long term goals. Losing normally brings pressure from fans, which often sees the board taking the decision to sack the manager. I feel time should be given to a manager to set his own ethos and hopefully consistent performances will eventually positive results.

Too many trigger-happy chairmen in football?

Even at non-league level, it seems very rare for a manager to stay in charge of a club for more than a couple of years. Why do you think this is?

Obviously at every level there is only one team can win the league, which leaves majority of teams frustrated and disappointed? Pressure builds on the manager and he is either relieved from his duties or he steps down due to various reasons. A major consideration is the enormous amount of time it takes up doing this job on a part time basis whilst still having a full time job and a family. Sometimes 24 hours in a day is not enough and the pressure will eventually tell.

Quite early in your reign I gather the club struggled financially, and worked on a very limited budget. At this time, did you rely on an academy setup?

I was instrumental in setting up our original PACE scheme which not only brought in young talent but also helped financially.

Do you share the ethos of clubs like Crewe Alexandra and Hartlepool, that the development of youth is the way forward?

Passion for developing youth - Gradi

I feel the best way is a balance between youth and experience. Developing young players is very rewarding especially when you see them go onto bigger and better things but spotting players at a lower level and recognising their potential to perform at a higher level is also very satisfying. We are currently fortunate enough to have some experienced ‘ex’ professional players in our ranks and I now know how important these players are for the development of our younger players by setting excellent standards and having a positive influence on the squad. These lads are happy to pass on tips and you often see them taking a young player to one side to give advice. They are a pleasure to have around the club.

When judging the potential of a young player, what do you tend to look for?

Technical ability is a must, but a good attitude is important. Pace is a must if they have potential to go full time. Physical strength is useful but mental strength is a must a Wealdstone as our fans can be a little unforgiving at times.

Do you have a tactical philosophy? If so, would you say you are a more attack or defensive-minded coach?

I am guilty of being a bit cautious and I like to build sides on a solid defence however it depends on the ability of your squad.  I believe we have the technical ability in the current squad to be an open attacking side that has the desire and commitment needed to defend properly as well.

What is the best aspect of being a football manager?

The constant challenges and emotions you face on a regular basis and winning being the best feeling of them all.

Thanks for answering my questions. Another 18 years?!

Unlikely, but I will continue as long as I am still enjoying it and feel I can keep taking the club forward. I wrote a book called ‘Off the bench’ about my 25 years in non-league management. I would love to do another one before I call it a day.