Championship: Cardiff unveil Russell Slade as their new first team manager
Wednesday 8 October 2014 10:24, UK
Cardiff City have finally unveiled Russell Slade as their new first team manager.
Slade, who left League One Leyton Orient last month, has been touted for the Bluebirds' role following the exit of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer on September 18, and the Sky Bet Championship club confirmed the appointment on Monday night.
The Englishman takes over with his new club languishing in 15th position following their relegation from the Premier League and with just one win in nine league games.
But delighted owner Vincent Tan said: "I’m delighted to appoint Russell Slade as the manager of Cardiff City. I have personally offered Russell this opportunity after giving much thought to the needs of the club at this point in time and firmly believe that he is the right person for the job.
"The stability, integrity and experience that he brings is something I feel is essential for Cardiff City. He is capable of turning a group of players into an organised, tight-knit team, with great team spirit, who will work hard for each other while playing an attractive style of football.
This is an important appointment for me because Russell has the right values for the club and our supporters.
“I ask that our supporters offer him a chance to prove his long term value to our club, giving him and his players their full support as we try to earn our place in the Premier League under his guidance.
"Look at Russell’s track record. He certainly deserves to be given a chance. After all, Cardiff gave a chance to a mediocre manager from Watford and he took the club to the Premier League. I did however give him a lot of money to spend for that – in fact, too much money.
“This is an important appointment for me because Russell has the right values for the club and our supporters. I hope he will be able to bring the best out of our squad, and also help to unite everyone associated with the club. So, let’s all give Russell a chance.”
Slade said: “I’m grateful to Vincent for giving me this opportunity as Cardiff City is a fantastic football club. We have a large squad and it’s more than putting out the best eleven players on paper. We need the best group of players out there with the right balance and chemistry.
"It’s now about building a relationship with the players and installing a strong ethos and work ethic. That’s what I want us to take onto the pitch every week."
