The Marko bombshell so calmly defused

Too many managers talk much and say  little. Thus, it’s very refreshing to find one who does directly the opposite.

There were two moments in today’s presser ahead of Manchester City on Saturday which demonstrated how Manuel Pellegrini handles the big questions and both were Marko Arnautovic-related.

Ageism – like sexism and racism – has always been a cheap shot and one which fails to take account of the wisdom which years of experience usually – but not always of course – brings with with it.

The manager has been around the footballing block more times than most and as a result nothing takes him by surprise and always brings a response which is more than worth listening to and taking to heart.

And at the end of a week which had seen his star man at the centre of controversial departure and/or wage demands he had precisely the right words at hand.

There was no drama just the usual calm and collected responses to a media keen to get a sensational headline. No chance because this is Manuel Pellegrini.

Asked about his brother/agent’s involvement in talk about a move or demands for more wages he said:  “I cannot tell everyone what they must say or not say. Everyone must own his own words. I don’t know where Marko’s brother said these words, but he didn’t say them to me.” 

Then, discussing Marko’s attitude towards a possible move he declared: “He has a contract, he is a West Ham player and he is happy here. Every player wants to play for the biggest team, but I don’t think he is thinking about that, but only about West Ham.”

This is the sort of stability and common sense needed very badly indeed in such circumstances. All the drama we have been switching on social media is defused and I for one am extremely grateful for such a calm appraisal of both scenarios.