Along with a new Head Coach, Sunderland also have a new assistant manager in Martin Canning. A former Hamilton Academical player and coach, we spoke to Accies expert Andy who tells us what to expect from Canning...
What did Canning achieve during his time at Hamilton, first as a player?
Martin Canning joined Accies in September 2008 in a team that had already won promotion to the SPL under Billy Reid, but it was a team that mostly avoided relegation for the time they were there. After Alex Neil replaced Reid as manager, Accies’ playing style became much more dynamic and Canning was part of the team that beat Hibs to win the 2013-14 play-off and gain promotion to the Premiership.
Canning became manager of Hamilton after Alex Neil joined Norwich. How did he do as a coach?
After only a few months in the top flight, during which time they beat Celtic and Aberdeen, Neil moved to Norwich and Canning took over. His managerial record wasn’t great, but it was a team that regularly fought against relegation. Canning won a relegation play-off, and had some impressive wins, including against the likes of Rangers and Aberdeen. Fans weren’t happy, really, from the start. While most rated Canzo as a player, his managerial reign started badly and pretty much continued in that vein. A side which was top of the league avoided relegation that first season, for example.
What style of play did he like to use?
Other than under Alex Neil, Accies’ style has never been particularly attacking other than the First Division-winning season under Billy Reid, but you can only use the resources you have. Accies are a tiny club with no money - their stay in the top flight is nothing short of remarkable.
What type of man-manager is Canning? Can players expect the hairdryer treatment, or an arm round the shoulder?
Alex Neil is renowned for his man-management, so he’s more likely to deal with that sort of thing, while Canning will probably be more involved with training.
He was a defender as a player. Can we expect Martin to help make our leaky backline more solid?
Hamilton’s defensive record under Canning was horrendous, but that’s something that Alex Neil will be more likely to solve.
What are your thoughts on the pair?
Good luck to them both, and to Sunderland. It’s a tremendous opportunity for both and a first time working together. They’re two of the nicest people I’ve ever met in football, and if Neil replicates his style at Accies, you’re in for a real treat.
