A year ago
Duncan Ferguson worked in the Everton backroom for years under various managers.
He also served as the club's caretaker manager on two occasions, but Frank Lampard was chosen last season for the permanent position.
He has now gone it alone at age 51, and in January he took over Forest Green in League One in his first permanent managerial position.
It has not been a smooth beginning. Throughout his first nine games in charge, only two points have been earned. After being promoted last season, Rovers are currently at the bottom of the third division and are quickly returning to League Two.
But, Dale Vince, the club's owner, gave Ferguson a five-and-a-half-year deal, and he is dedicated to establishing the team over the long haul.
Here, he discussed his plans for Forest Green and other topics with Sky Sports analyst and former Everton teammate Andy Hinchcliffe.
..
On his regret at not being hired by Everton
"I was given consideration. I attended an interview, but regrettably I was not selected. That was disheartening since everyone wants to manage the team they support, and I thought I had a right to try and lead the squad to a successful season's end.
"But the team signed Frank Lampard, a someone I greatly respect. To be fair, he helped the team stay afloat and prevent relegation.
"While I was unhappy, the situation is what it is. The club made the proper choice when it made its decision."
discussing his long-term goals for Forest Green and his efforts to entice Messi!
"While I don't think I needed persuading, [the owner and I] needed to talk about the direction the club was taking and what he envisioned for it. It has undoubtedly advanced significantly during the past four or five years.
"I was drawn to him as soon as I spoke with him. He gave me a positive first impression and informed me where he wanted the club to go. He expressed his faith in me by giving me a lengthy contract.
"Undoubtedly, our current situation isn't ideal. We may need to take a step back, but we intend to move forward again soon. In the Championship is what we aspire to. That is the goal. We want to be there, and as a coach, I want to be there.
"If you have strong environmental beliefs, you might wish to visit this place. Does Messi have strong opinions about the environment? He could have come here, surely."
On his dedication to the club
"While I'm at Forest Green, I adore Everton. The proprietor is aware of my reputation as a man of my word, and I have assured him that I won't leave until he orders me to. The end of that.
"It doesn't matter if Everton or Real Madrid sign me up tomorrow or next week. I'm not going to quit this club. It is a given fact.
"He had faith in me to join the team and offered me a sizable contract. He shown his loyalty to me, and I will do the same for him."
Concerning Dyche and Everton's relegation fight
"Frank was, in my opinion, one of the best people I've ever worked with. He was simply excellent, and I've never seen somebody speak to players or present so well.
"Naturally, I monitor the outcomes, and it appears like Sean is playing fast and loose with the results. I understand why Everton chose him. He's done it and been there.
"He has that background. He will arrange them how he feels is appropriate. Everton will be secure this season thanks to his recent string of successful performances."
Total Comments: 0