Belgium manager Roberto Martinez has worked with ex Celt Shaun Maloney side by side for a number of years in the Belgium set up and expects him to be very successful after his step up to become a manager in his own right. And very interestingly, has predicted he will form a team to challenge both Celtic and Sevco.
As quoted in the Sun, Martinez said “Shaun will build a strong team, one with the mentality to compete against the Old F*rm and make it a really successful story. What you’re going to see is him getting the very best out of Hibernian’s players.
That’s two wins already. I’ve no doubt he’s already making an impact on Hibernian’s results. I was hoping to go to Celtic Park to see Shaun facing his old club for the first time. There will be other opportunities and I look forward to seeing his Hibs team.
Slowly they will become very recognisable in the way he wants them to play. Shaun has always been excited about attacking, making the difference in the final third. But he’s experienced enough to keep a team balanced.
I believe the commitment, hard work and ideas of Shaun will affect every aspect of this club. For me, Shaun is bound for the highest level. He showed by taking the Belgium job he was prepared to travel anywhere and challenge himself. He won’t limit himself. I think his coaching career has no limits either.”
Judging by these comments Martinez obviously rates Maloney very highly indeed. Whenever he is a pundit on Sky Shaun always comes across very well and it’s clear he has an in depth understanding of the game. I wouldn’t be surprised in the slightest if he becomes Celtic manager down the line.
He is also an extremely intelligent, dignified, humble, respectful and positive person with excellent manners.
My son and I had a long conversation with him and a friend of his at Hampden Park in the players lounge a few years back, not long after he finished playing. I got the impression then that his football knowledge was first class and that he would be a great man manager.