Former Premier League owner Simon Jordan believes Mark Robins could be an inspired replacement for Chris Wilder at Middlesbrough with the Coventry City boss linked with a Riverside role, speaking to talkSPORT (5 October, 11am).
Of all the managers currently linked with the Boro job, Robins is perhaps the one who ticks the most boxes.
Unlike Rob Edwards, sacked by Watford after just 11 Championship games, Robins boasts a proven track record in the second tier. Yes, Coventry are enduring a difficult start to the new campaign. But it should not be forgotten that they spent much of 2021/22 flirting with the play-off positions; flying high against all expectations.
The 52-year-old former Huddersfield Town and Scunthorpe United boss also has a promotion on his CV. You can’t say the same of Gary O’Neil; Bournemouth’s inexperienced interim coach and another name on Steve Gibson’s radar.
Middlesbrough eye Mark Robins as Chris Wilder replacement
“The one thing I got was feedback about Robins,” Jordan explains, reflecting on discussions he previously held about potentially taking over at the Ricoh Arena. “(Coventry were) inorbitantly impressed with him.
“Coventry fans will not be delighted to hear that (Middlesbrough want Robins). I think that’s s asa sensible appointment. It’s not an orbit-shattering appointment, but its sensible. Coventry were there and thereabouts last year, in terms of the play offs.
“They were beginning to look like they were getting themselves together again. This would be a blow to them, and the last thing Coventry need. It’s not a good news situation.”
Jordan, the one-time Crystal Palace owner, believes that Robins’ name leaps of the page in comparison to the other names on Middlesbrough’s wishlist; Edwards and O’Neil.
“Of the three that have been mentioned, with no disrespect to Gary O’Neil, the most grown up (option) is Mark Robins,” he says.
Interestingly, one-time Manchester United forward Robins turned down the chance to replace Jack Ross at Middlesbrough’s North East neighbours Sunderland three years ago this month.
“On the back of the approach from Sunderland, the club (Coventry) reacted really quickly with a new contract offer. I am grateful to them for that,” Robins explained at the time. “I had no intention of leaving.
“I’m fully invested in this process and this club. Everyone knows the feelings I have. I have got this club in my heart and want to continue the progress we have made.”
Coventry fans will be hoping Robins strikes a similar tone when Middlesbrough come knocking.
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