Tim Sherwood can do no wrong at the moment.
He got one over on his former employers at the weekend, by leading Aston Villa to a 1-0 victory over Spurs.
The result continued the club’s impressive form since Sherwood took charge and left the Villains with a little bit of breathing room away from the relegation zone.
Away from the pitch, Sherwood also seems to be making all the right moves.
After Paul Lambert was sacked, young Charlie Pye wrote to Villa chief executive Tom Fox putting himself forward for the vacant managerial role.
His job application read as follows:
“I think my team talks would be very good and my tactics would be excellent.
We need to stop the goals by getting in the way. We need to score more by shooting on target. This is a winning formula, so my dad says.
As for payment on taking the job, all I ask is for a signed claret and blue football, a WWE wrestling figure and some sweets. As a win bonus each week, I would want a Twix.
I would appoint my mum and dad as assistant managers so they can drive me to the training ground each day. My mum is also very good at making bacon sandwiches for the players if that helps.
If I am successful, I would also need you to tell my school that I don’t need to attend anymore as I have a job.”
JOB JOY: Here’s six-year-old Charlie Pye. He went for the Villa manager job in February, didn’t get it but still go… pic.twitter.com/lE802yIA6u
— AVTV (@avtv) April 14, 2015
It has since come to light that Sherwood took it upon himself to write a heartfelt response to the 6-year-old fan’s passionate letter.
“From your letter it is clear to see that you would indeed be an ideal candidate for the job due to your knowledge of the game – and your very capable backroom staff, of course!
Hopefully you’re not too disappointed at missing out and I’m informed that I just managed to pip you to the post so you were very close to being offered the job.
Our chief executive Tom Fox has informed me that the club would like your permission to keep the letter on file ‘just in case’ – although I’m hoping I will be successful at this great football club.
I will certainly be aiming to make you and all the other supporters happy.
In terms of your football career, I want to wish Norton Lindsey every success this season. Well done on being appointed captain. I was a captain during my own playing career – it’s a special honour.”
Pye revealed he was overjoyed at the fact that the club manager took the time to respond to his letter. Sherwood’s thoughtful gesture clearly made the young fan’s day.
“I never expected a letter from the manager but I was absolutely delighted to get one.
“What he wrote was brilliant – it meant a lot to me. Even the stuff about congratulating me on being a captain was really special.
“I was really happy when he got the job because of his passion and I love him even more now. I think he will do brilliantly for the Villa. He already is!”
Fair play.
Hat-tip to 101 Great Goals/Thomas Curran
