Lochhead recommends Wilkinson

Last updated : 21 May 2004 By Tony Scholes

But in his weekly article in the Lancashire Evening Telegraph Andy has today come up with his own suggestion – Howard Wilkinson. He is of the opinion that should he team up with Steve Cotterill that it could be the dream team to take the Clarets onwards and upwards.

Cotterill’s name has been linked with the job but Wilkinson, who this week left his job in China for personal reasons, has not been worth any sort of mention.

Maybe Andy is not aware of their wonderful record together at the Stadium of Light that all but ensured that Sunderland would be leaving the Premiership after taking over Peter Reid’s mess.

The Sunderland fans just couldn’t wait to see the back of him after their side won just four league and cup games during the five months he was in charge and it was thought then that he was waving goodbye to management.

There was no return to the FA for him, they made no real effort to stand in his way when he went to Sunderland and he has until this week been working in China. Cotterill has paid the price for his decision to go and work for Wilkinson and has not found himself another long term job since.

I don’t think for one minute the Burnley board will even consider him – you certainly would like to think not.