Sheffield United CEO Stephen Bettis speaks on Alan Knill departure
Stephen Bettis gives reasons for Alan Knill departure as the former Blades assistant boss moves on again
Stephen Bettis has insisted that long-standing assistant manager Alan Knill’s end to his Blades career was a ‘collective decision’.
The Sheffield United Chief Executive spoke to the media on Tuesday night amid the ongoing ownership concerns.
Bettis was quizzed on a number of topics including details of Alan Knill’s controversial departure from Bramall Lane.
He told BBC Radio Sheffield: “I think it was a collective decision. I think in the summer we spoke about ways of refreshing the coaching staff and looking at things that could be done, and when you start looking at the average age of managers that get promoted to the PL, that number is getting lower and lower.
“I think the average (age) is about 40-42, and we felt that bringing some younger coaching staff in, Gary McSheffrey moving up from the academy and Micky Collins being promoted from coach to assistant manager, we felt was bringing some young people into those roles,” he continued.
It remained unclear who made the initial decision, however.
“Chris (Wilder) and I spoke about it, definitely,” Bettis added. “And then we talked to the owners about it as well and had a conversation; it wasn't just about that, it was about a number of things, but that was one of the things.”
He repeated, “It was a collective decision.”
“I think everyone was on board with it. Alan, again, did amazing things with Chris at this football club, but I think there was a point where everyone felt that a change and bringing in some new energy, and also promoting internally and giving pathways to our academy coaches was a huge exciting thing for us to do.”
On Tuesday it was reported by Huddersfield Town that Knill had left the club aftre three months as assistant to Martin Drury.
“Alan’s decision to step away is one we entirely respect, and we’re glad to have had him at the Club alongside us for the opening months of the season,” sporting director Chris Markham told the club website. “He’s been a warm presence at Canalside and within our coaching room, and will always be welcome at the Club, conducting himself with the utmost professionalism throughout his time here.”
Drury added: “First and foremost, I’ve really appreciated the opportunity to get to know and work alongside Alan over the past few months, and I know I’m not alone in feeling that way. He’s been a popular figure with both the staff and players, but we understand and appreciate his personal reasons for wanting to step aside, and we wish both him and his family well for the future.”