Martinez bid by Celtic is 'far-sighted'

Published on Tuesday 2 June 2009 10:16

PAT NEVIN believes Celtic's pursuit of Swansea manager Roberto Martinez is a "far-sighted" policy designed to maximise their efficiency in emerging transfer markets.

Nevin, who helped bring Martinez to Motherwell during his days as Fir Park chief executive, believes the move would help Celtic tap talent in the only markets they can afford to operate in. "It would be a very brave and bold move by Celtic and I realise there are a lot of other managers still in the frame," Nevin said. "But I think it's quite far-sighted for Celtic to think of this.

"We have heard some of the names mentioned, even Scottish ones, wouldn't be willing to give up English jobs. So they have to think of somebody who is an up-and-coming manager who has great knowledge of the areas Celtic need to buy in.

"One of those areas is beneath the Premiership in England, because Celtic can't afford to bring players in from the Premiership, and also players from abroad.

"Roberto's knowledge of the Spanish scene is second to none – he did a lot of work for Spanish television.

"His knowledge of different markets is great – that's very, very important for a chief executive – and also he plays a really attractive and enjoyable style of football, which Celtic fans would enjoy."

Martinez made little impact at Motherwell before being made redundant when the club went into administration in April 2002, but Nevin believes his "classy" style is now more suited to the SPL.

He led Swansea to the League One title in his first full season in charge before guiding them to eighth position in the Coca-Cola Championship, just missing out on the play-offs.