ONE LEGENDARY MANAGER may be about to leave the game behind, but one may be in the making at Hayes.
Former Ireland and Liverpool defender Phil Babb has been appointed manager of Blue Square Bet Conference South side Hayes and Yeading United.
On Thursday night, the Middlesex club announced the appointment of Babb, 42, as their manager for the 2013/14 season, taking over from coaching duo Tristan Lewis and Delroy Preddie.
The Lambeth born defender won 35 caps for the Republic of Ireland between 1994 and 2002, including playing in all four matches at USA 94 and played for Bolton Wanderers, Liverpool and Sporting Lisbon among others in a 14 year professional career.
“I’m really excited about this opportunity to put to use my years of experience, plus the knowledge of non-league and lower league football that I have gained in recent years,” said Babb, who holds a UEFA B license, upon his appointment.
“I followed closely the fortunes of the club last year, and recognise the bags of potential it has and like its forward-thinking approach.
I’ve watched many games at this level and know what a tough division it is, but believe I have the skills to help in the building of a successful club and nurture some great young talent,” he continued.
Since his retirement, Babb has worked as a football agent while also doing some media work for Sky Sports and TV3.
His move into management makes him the fifth member of Jack Charlton’s USA 94 squad to move into management. Ronnie Whelan, John Sheridan, John Aldridge, Steve Staunton and Roy Keane have all already moved into the dugout at domestic or international level, to notably mixed results.
None of that list has gone quite as far down the football pyramid as Babb however, with Hayes and Yeading looking to build on a 17th place finish in English football’s sixth tier next season.
Hayes Director of Football Tony O’Driscoll added, “Phil immediately impressed us all with what he knew about us, our players and the level we are playing at. He has an incredible knowledge of the game across all levels and shares our vision in building the club the correct way.”