Everton: Richard Keys points out Goodison Park players in Jose Mourinho to Newcastle verdict
Richard Keys has named Everton and Liverpool players when insisting the North can be a popular draw for big names in the Premier League.
In his latest article (18 March), the sports commentator described the North East as the perfect place for Jose Mourinho, with the former Chelsea and Manchester United manager linked with a move to Newcastle all season.
Despite conceding that London is the preferred location, he believes that players and managers would choose the north of England, pointing out the Merseyside duo.
Writing in his blog, Keys said: “My answer? Jose Mourinho. Few people know more about winning than he does. He’s done it everywhere he’s been – including ‘half a trophy’, as he puts it, at Spurs. What madness that was – sacking him in the week of a final.
“If Newcastle want to sign top players they need a top coach to attract them. Geography plays a huge part these days when players are making decisions about which club to join.
“London is always favourite. The North West – Alderley Wedge and surrounding areas are popular – even for players at Liverpool and Everton.”
Everton still a huge draw in the Premier League
While it is easy to understand why players and managers would want to go to a club in London, for professional and lifestyle reasons, there is still plenty of opportunity for both outside of the capital.
On top of competing at a club like Newcastle and Everton, who both have a rich history and incredible fan bases, joining a Premier League club alone is a desirable prospect for anyone, regardless of geography.
It is the most watched, most popular, and one of the most entertaining leagues in world football, so to be a part of that raises a player’s, or manager’s, profile in the sport that perhaps might not be achievable anywhere else.
Every club comes with its risks and it is about making the right choices to get the most out of a very short career, rather than solely on joining a team based on geographical benefits.
Take Carlo Ancelotti for example, he didn’t think twice before the move to Goodison.
In other Everton news, a new financial update should emerge within weeks.
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