An interview with Andy Smith, by Callum McFadden for WFi.
Your most recent spell in management was with FC Haka in Finland. How do you reflect on that experience?
”It was a fantastic experience. The football over there is very different, especially when it comes to transfer windows, totally unlike the UK. But I loved every minute of it.
“The club had the smallest budget in the league, yet in my first year, we got close to the European places. The players were terrific.
“However, I probably lost 60 goals from my team the following season because a number of players had earned moves elsewhere.
“One of the highlights from my time in charge was beating HJK Helsinki away for the first time in 19 years. That was special. There was real progression during my time there.
“Last season was tougher because we couldn’t replace the players who had moved on, given the limited resources. Recruitment was difficult, but overall it was a great experience. I’ve since spoken with three or four Finnish clubs, but I’m taking time to decide my next move over the coming weeks and months.”
Since leaving the club in July, have you had offers to return to management?
“I’ve had offers from the Middle East, Sweden, and interest from a couple of clubs in England’s League One. The timing just wasn’t right at that moment.
“Our performances in Finland showed that even with a limited budget, we could compete with the biggest teams. With a bit more backing, we could have achieved even more. But you work with what you have, that’s management.
“A lot of my players came from junior football, and now some of them are playing in Europe. That makes me incredibly proud, seeing them develop and move on to bigger opportunities.”
To date, you have coached in a number of countries such as Portugal, Bulgaria, Slovakia, and Finland. Has working abroad always been something you’ve prioritised?
“Absolutely. I think it’s vital. Every day on the training ground, working with different nationalities and cultures, teaches you something about yourself.
”I always tell club presidents or chairmen that I manage people, not footballers. I want to create a family environment wherever I work. When people are happy, they perform better.
“One of the best learning experiences that I have had in football was when I spent nearly two and a half years observing Liverpool, learning from Jürgen Klopp and Alex Inglethorpe. That was a huge education for me.
“During that time period, I was able to observe Steven Gerrard and Michael Beale at Rangers and have the opportunity to visit FC Barcelona to observe training sessions under Xavi, thanks to Jordi Cruyff, who was working as sporting director at the time.
“Watching how elite clubs and their staff operate at such a consistently high level was invaluable.”
How would you describe your managerial style and footballing philosophy?
“It depends on the club because you have to adapt to the environment that you are but my ideal style is attacking football, high energy, pressing, enthusiasm throughout the team and the club.
“It’s not just about what happens on the pitch, but about creating a positive environment across the whole organisation. Fans want to be entertained and feel their team gives everything. And, as Jürgen always says, it’s all about winning.”
You represented Northern Ireland 18 times at international level during your playing career. How proud are you when you look back at those days?
“It was a dream. Coming from a small estate, like many players do, you work hard, go across the water, and just want to make your family proud.
“For me, it’s always been about hard work. In any industry, if you put the effort in, you’ll get your rewards.
“Playing for my country was an incredible honour. When your family comes to see you pull on that shirt at Windsor Park, you know your mum and dad are proud. That feeling never leaves you.”
You were part of a successful Glentoran side in the early 2000s during what many call a golden period for the club. How do you reflect on those times?
“It was a fantastic period working under the legendary Roy Coyle. The gaffer was a great man-manager who brought in players with real character and knowledge of the league.
“He also brought in Michael O’Neill, who’s now the Northern Ireland manager. We had good young players around him, plenty of energy, and strong standards throughout the squad.
“I don’t know if they can get back to that level, but with the investment they have now, it looks possible that they can win the league title again. The manager back then set the tone for everything and made things happen on and off the pitch.”
In addition to Roy Coyle, who were the biggest influences on you as a player and as a manager?
“Neil Warnock was a huge influence because he signed me for Sheffield United as a young player. I left home at 17, and he was fantastic for me. He taught me how to conduct myself on and off the pitch, and what it takes to play in one of his teams.
“I still keep in touch with him now, and he continues to give me advice. He’s a great man and someone I owe a lot to.”
As well as your time at Sheffield United, you also represented clubs such as Preston and Motherwell. What were those experiences like, particularly working under Terry Butcher at Motherwell?
”I loved my time at Motherwell, even though injuries limited me. It’s a fantastic club with great people. Terry Butcher was a leader, brilliant in the dressing room, great with the lads. I didn’t have long there, but I really enjoyed the experience.”
Given the ups and downs of your playing career, including injuries and setbacks, does that motivate you even more as a coach and manager?
“Definitely. You always want to win and do your best. As a manager now, I want to help players develop and achieve success in their own careers.
“I tell my players to leave everything in the dressing room, go out and express themselves. Win, lose, or draw, just give it your all and enjoy it.
“I love what I do. I’m bouncing out of bed every morning, heading to the training ground, and learning from players of different backgrounds. Maybe injuries stopped me from achieving more as a player, but now I can pass on that experience to the next generation.”
Finally, Andy, what’s next for you? Would you like to manage in the UK after considerable time working abroad?
“Yes, that’s the aim. I’ve spoken with clubs in League One and the Championship, but at that time I was still in Finland.
“Right now, I’m taking some time to work with Aston Villa alongside Unai Emery and Pako Ayestaran, who is a friend of mine. It’s a fantastic opportunity to learn from them. Watching how they operate every day is sometimes better than a job itself.
“I feel ready. It’s all about timing in this journey. I’ll be back in the dugout very soon. Let’s see what happens.”
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