Journalist Alan Nixon has suggested that former Imps boss Michael Appleton is being lined up for a surprise return to football, as part of Man Utd’s backroom staff.
Appleton, who still divides opinion among Imps fans, took us to within a whisker of Championship football, narrowly losing out to Blackpool in the League One play-off final. His second season was not a success, and he left the club by mutual consent in May 2022. Since then, he’s had spells with Blackpool and Charlton, both of which have resulted in dismissal.
It’s believed he is now being targetted as the Red Devils’ loan manager, overseeing the development of young players who head out of the club for temporary spells. Last season, no fewer than 18 young United players went out on loan, with the likes of Joe Hugill, Charlie McNeil and Dan Gore appearing in League One.
It’s an interesting role for Appleton, who did excel with young players coming in on loan during his tenure here. Brennan Johnson and Morgan Rogers stand out, but it shouldn’t be forgotten TJ Eyoma had his best spell in a City shirt under Appleton, whilst Brooke Norton-Cuffy, Lewis Fiorini and Morgan Whittaker all either did well here, or have gone on to better things.
Of course, Appleton is no stranger to Man United. He came through the ranks at Old Trafford, a Salford-boy through and through. He had loan spells with Wimbledon, Grimsby, and us before a permanent move to Preston. He did well for them and earned a move to West Brom, but in 2001 he tore posterior cruciate ligaments in his right knee after an accidental training-ground collision, which effectively ended his professional career.
Since then, he’s cultivated a reputation as a solid coach but has had indifferent form in multiple managerial spells. His Imps career perhaps sums up his entire managerial spell: a good season with lots of plaudits, followed by disappointment. His time at Oxford was a huge success, and I think he was a better manager than he gets credit for at Lincoln. Charlton, Blackpool and Blackburn fans might not be so enthusiastic.
Perhaps Michael’s biggest downfall is he was too honest and too true to himself. He wouldn’t make adjustments to his style, be it applauding supporters or shifting his philosophy on the field for different opponents. Whilst there’s certainly a lot to be said for what he got out of loan players, the likes of Haks, Lasse and Sean Roughan might argue the same courtesy didn’t always extend to our own talent. I’d also wager Lee Frecklington and Tom Pett feel the same way.
Whatever the situation, I think this is the perfect role for Michael now. His managerial credentials have been damaged by his Charlton and Blackpool stints, and while he might have been able to rock up at a Salford in the future, I’m sure a fresh challenge will appeal much more than a climb down the divisions. He’s also a lifelong United supporter, which makes this a good role for him.
Whatever anyone says about Michael, he was an honest man (too honest, as I’ve said) and like or dislike that, at least you knew where you stood. I wish him all the best, and would love to see him working with a smile on his face. Just for once!
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