Show them you mean it

Photo: Picture Vincent Brown

ON THE BALL: new Latics manager Paul Dickov.

Players must win over fans, insists Dickov

NEW Athletic boss Paul Dickov says it is down to his players to get disillusioned fans back onside.

Rather than follow the lead of many managers by calling on supporters to “get behind us”, the Scot insists his side will have to earn the right.

A disappointing League One season which included a flirtation with relegation led to unrest in the Boundary Park stands, as well as the departure of boss Dave Penney.

Dickov, who signed a 12-month rolling contract after returning from a family holiday, told the Evening Chronicle: “Any team of mine will have to earn the fans’ backing through work ethic and determination.

“Throughout my career I’ve always thought it’s down to the team to generate an atmosphere by playing a certain way.

“I’m not going to come here and tell the supporters to back us, because we have to give them something to shout about.

“The only way to do it is by crossing that line and giving it our all, playing some good football and getting results.”

The 37-year-old has registered himself as a player for the new campaign, but will only feature in the first team if he meets his own high fitness standards.

“I’m going to train with the lads in pre-season to see what sort of shape I’m in,” he said.

Dickov earned a reputation as a fiery character on the pitch, with a never-say-die attitude which led to Joe Royle labelling him ‘The Wasp’ at Manchester City.

But he is keen to adapt his management style to the different needs of modern-day footballers.

He added: “People see me in a certain light and my determination would sometimes spill over in the heat of the moment.

“As a manager, my approach will depend entirely on the players I have at my disposal.

“Some of them need an arm around the shoulder, while others need a telling-off.

“But I can say now for sure, there will be more encouragement than anything else.

“There is no point in going about it the wrong way and destroying someone’s confidence just so you can say you’ve read them the riot act. “

Gerry Taggart is in the frame to assist Dickov at Athletic.

Although he could not confirm the identity of his right-hand man, Dickov said the new arrival shares his will to win.

“He is someone I trust, who has the same outlook as myself and is determined to succeed,” he added. “Hopefully, the appointment will be sorted out by Monday.”