Scolari Demands Big Commitment From Chelsea Squad
Posted on June 13, 2008
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Luiz Felipe Scolari who was named as new Chelsea manager on Tuesday has demanded a squad commitment from the Chelsea players next season. He officially takes over the reigns at Stamford Bridge on July the 1st, and has a reputation amongst those in the press of being a tough character.
He told the Daily Star “I have a reputation of being a tough guy, and that’s why they call me Big Phil. What’s wrong with that?”
“I look after my players, they look after me. On the pitch, you must give everything and save nothing.
“I like aggression in players and those who love to impose themselves on games. Players have to be physically strong.
“Players must understand what I say and what I want. I will give them responsibility to sort things out on the pitch, but first they must prove to me they can handle that.
“No player must play for me if he cannot have the confidence to express himself.”
This was a strong signal of intent for things to come and the opposite style of managed previously employed by Avram Grant. ‘Big Phil’s’ managerial style may well suit the English game, due to its more physical nature when compared to other European leagues and its quicker pace.
Deco – who plays under Scolari for Portugal has been touted as one of Chelsea’s first signings of the new season. Although Scolari has distanced himself from these reports, he did reserve special praise for Deco during a press conference saying “He is an individual player - talented but daring,” said the World Cup winner. “It is easy to play football when you are daring. He dribbles and protects the ball and makes things happen.
“He is always expressing himself. There will be mistakes, but this I can excuse. Deco is not afraid.”
Luiz Felipe does have his fair share of critics however. Some sections of the media have claimed that he only knows how to perform in cup knockout football (he has never managed in Europe) and that his command of the English language is weak. He agent however has squashed these rumors and stated that whatever country he moves to he has no problem in adapting to the local way of life. There will be a big expectation for Chelsea to deliver this season, and in football nowadays a manager’s lifespan is very short if he doesn’t bring instant success. The upcoming Premier League season should prove to be one of the most exiting to date.
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