(Photo: Action Images via Reuters)
One way to ingratiate yourself with potential employers is to say nice things about them, butter them up. That is the route taken by Steve Eyre in relation to the vacant manager's post at Chesterfield.
Gary Caldwell was dismissed last weekend after eight months in charge. The Scot couldn't prevent the club from slipping to the fourth tier last season and now leaves the side in the League Two relegation zone after just one win in 10 games this term.
Eyre, who worked as assistant manager with the Spireites from February until last month when he left by mutual consent, is currently 12/1 to be given the position at the Proact Stadium.
And he has insisted that there were no hard feelings behind his departure from the Derbyshire club, and that any new boss would be taking over the division's premier team.
“Gary is a football man with an esteemed character and is a good coach and even better analyst,” the 45-year-old told the Derbyshire Times.
“There was no fall out, just a difference of opinion on how to play and gain points in League Two after a miserable League One campaign, pre-season and start to the season.
“I'm still in touch with Ashley Carson [Chesterfield director], he has only ever treated me with respect. My compensation hasn't yet been talked about or settled but it can be talked about at a time that suits the club.
“I love football, I love coaching and winning. I was just starting to love my time at Chesterfield. I will follow the team closely and whilst I've not spoken to Guy Branston [caretaker boss], I will contact him on Saturday to wish him and the team all the best for Luton.
“I expect the team to improve quickly under a new regime. The supporters will ensure that Chesterfield, in my opinion, is still the best club in League Two.”
Eyre retired from playing at just 19 to take up coaching, and had an excellent spell in charge of Manchester City's youth teams. He spent 21 years with City and has since had a short spell in charge of Rochdale and a caretaker spell at Huddersfield.