Crusaders boss Declan Caddell on managing players he used to play with
Declan Caddell admits the transition from Crusaders player to manager has been a relatively smooth one, even when it comes to managing players he used to be teammates with.
Caddell was named as Stephen Baxter's successor in the summer, the rookie boss coming in to replace a Seaview legend.
The 36-year-old former midfielder was part of Baxter's hugely successful era, which saw the Shore Road men claim 12 trophies including three Premiership titles.
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Now Caddell is trying to mould his own team and style, with several new faces bolstering the squad that delivered that silverware in recent years.
Asked what the dynamic is like managing players who used to be his teammates, Caddell said: "The transition from player to manager has been fine. I was asked that question a lot when I came in, going into a changing room with players I played with, and would it be difficult.
"But people forget I know these players like the back of my hand. I know their wives, kids, families, and know what makes them tick and how to treat them, and get a reaction.
"So that transition was quite easy for me. Yes, it's football and you can only put 11 players on the pitch. But the way the players have been playing, it has been easier because I haven't had a lot of headaches.
"It has been enjoyable."
He added: "It has been really good, and it is testament to the players in the changing room who have made it very easy to bed in and learn. They have taken things on board and trying to do the right things.
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"It would be worse if we were poor every week, but we are playing well. Pressure is always a privilege. We are in a very privileged position as manager and players, and you should enjoy that pressure.
"As long as we're doing the right things, which we are, then I am happy. We are ticking along nicely."
Caddell's managerial baptism got off to an impressive start, with Crusaders winning three of their opening four games.
Their momentum has been stalled, however, with two defeats on the bounce leaving them seventh in the early standings, but with games in hand.
"I am under no illusions. There will be games we are very good in, and games we are not so good in. And that will take time until we click, and the players get to know each other," he said.
"But for me it has been promising. I have come in and I have changed things in terms of formation, and how we get something out of games.
"Yes, we are disappointed with recent results, but not with the performances. And that's where the frustration creeps in."
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