Eriksson takes Notts County job

July 22, 2009

In what can only be described as a shock move, Sven-Goran Eriksson has taken the role of director of football at Notts County. He will be joined by his assistant Tord Grip.

Eriksson spent 5 years with England before a short time in charge of Manchester City and with the Mexican national team before getting sacked earlier this year. Eriksson had been hotly tipped for a return to the Premiership with Portsmouth one of the teams most hotly tipped.

Eriksson said: “I am particularly attracted to this role and the unique opportunity to help build a club over the longer term.”

The Magpies were taken over by a Middle-Eastern consortium a week ago.

Eriksson will start his role with immediate effect, will also be a shareholder and his remuneration will be determined by the success of the team.

The Swede will be responsible for transfer negotiations and scouting, health, fitness and development of players, training facilities, the youth academy and establishing community and overseas links.

Eriksson started his managerial career in lower-league football with Degerfors in his homeland and won promotion at the first time of asking.

“I can think of no better challenge than to attempt to do that again but this time with the world’s oldest football club, where we can add to a proud tradition and hopefully bring some richly deserved success,” he stated.

The consortium Munto Finance is believed to have wiped out County’s debts of about £1m when taking over from a supporters’ trust earlier this month and has pledged to finance a sustained bid for Championship football over the next five years

Notts County chairman Peter Trembling said: “Sven and his team join us with an unrivalled football pedigree.

“Their knowledge of the game and contacts throughout the football world will significantly enhance Notts County’s prospects.

“Sven shares our vision and to attract someone of his calibre is testament to the ambition that we all share for Notts County. This is a great day for everyone associated with the club.”

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