Former Portsmouth defender favourite for Barnsley manager’s job as Shrewsbury axe eight players from squad
League One champions Portsmouth were honored with a gathering at Southsea Common on Sunday, providing fans with a chance to rejoice in their title victory. While fans celebrated, preparations for their return to the Championship are underway, reflecting a forward-thinking approach that is also being adopted by other teams post the League One season. This mirrors a broader trend of teams focusing on the future following the conclusion of the League One season
Barnsley Sets Sights on Former Portsmouth Defender.
Barnsley FC is considering Mike Williamson, the current manager of MK Dons and a former Portsmouth defender, as their top choice to replace Neill Collins, who was recently sacked.
Williamson kicked off his managerial journey with Gateshead in 2019, guiding the team to the FA Trophy final last year before transitioning to MK Dons in October. The 40-year-old was recognized with the EFL League Two Manager of the Month award for December after steering the team to a fourth-place finish in the league. MK Dons are set to face Crawley in the play-offs as they aim for a swift return to League One.
Following the departure of Collins, Barnsley swiftly appointed Martin Devany as their interim manager. The team managed a 1-1 draw against Northampton on Saturday, securing their spot in the top six. Their next challenge involves a two-legged encounter with Bolton as they strive for a place in the League One play-off final.
Shrewsbury Town Releases Retained List
As the season comes to a close, clubs are announcing their retained lists for the upcoming year. While Portsmouth is still in the process of compiling their list, Shrewsbury Town manager Paul Hurst has already released his.
Hurst’s announcement comes just days after Shrewsbury finished the season in 19th place following a 3-1 home defeat against Leyton Orient on Saturday. Hurst described the decision as a “business decision,” as he bid farewell to eight members of this season’s squad, including Tom Flanagan, Elliott Bennett, and former Portsmouth-linked midfielder Tom Bayliss.
Reaffirming his decision, he stated, “First and foremost, this is not personal – it is a business decision. I genuinely have not encountered anyone whom I dislike. They have all been commendable individuals. They have not caused any issues for me at the training ground or elsewhere. I wish them success in their future endeavors.
“Hopefully, they will reflect on the guidance we have provided during our time together, whether immediately or in the future. I believe that those who have received this message will find a new club, and I genuinely wish them well. I will not harbor ill will towards them.
“If they excel elsewhere and it is perceived that I erred in my decision, I can accept that.”
Elaborating further, he said, “As I mentioned, sometimes individuals need to go through certain experiences to improve and become better. A different club, system, or manager might be able to bring out the best in some people. Ultimately, our goal is to help people develop and gain a deeper understanding of their profession – not just tactically, but also the dedication and commitment required to have a long and successful career.”
