Roberto Martinez is reportedly in contention to become the next Newcastle United manager.
The Magpies are yet to appoint Steve Bruce’s replacement, as we approach almost two weeks without a head coach.
Plenty of names have been linked, but Martinez’s name seems to be edging closer to the front of the queue.
In some respects, it’s easy to see why. He’s got the Premier League experience that the new owners crave, and has a history with getting clubs out of bother at the bottom of the table.
Martinez often worked miracles with Wigan before their luck ran out in 2013. Even then, he still managed to win the FA Cup in his final season in charge.
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After a mixed spell at Everton, the Spaniard is now Belgium manager, working with some of the best players in the world. But it is his international exploits which may hinder a move back to club football.
Roberto Martinez reportedly wants to continue with Belgium alongside Newcastle job
According to the Northern Echo, Martinez is interested in becoming Newcastle manager on a couple of conditions.
They report that he wants to delay talks until after the upcoming international break. That’s because Belgium are on the brink of qualifying for next year’s World Cup, and Martinez doesn’t want to jeopardise that.
The Red Devils need just two points to qualify, and are preparing for games against Estonia and Wales. I think your boys will be fine, Roberto…
On top of that, the Northern Echo add that Martinez would like to continue as Belgium boss if he decides to join Newcastle.
While the latter would be okay but not ideal, the first demand is where the problem lies.
Newcastle desperately need a new manager. The sooner we appoint someone, the sooner they can get to work trying to fix a broken side that is desperately struggling.
With the international break coming up, it is a perfect time to work with the players and get organised. A style of play and system can be worked on, ready to go on November 20th against Brentford.
A new manager needs to be in place before that Brentford game. That’s why Newcastle should perhaps move on from Martinez if he is insistent on waiting until after the international break.
While some may feel like he is the right appointment, we can’t afford to wait much longer.