David Pleat joins scouting setup with focus on English game

Celtic have drafted former Tottenham manager David Pleat into their English scouting set up.

A former coach, director of football and consultant scout at Spurs, the North London club announced that the 80-year-old would be stepping back from his duties at the end of last season


Credited with the signings of Dele Alli, Jan Vertonghen and Ben Davies, Pleat describes himself as a ‘football obsessive’.

And Celtic head of recruitment Paul Tisdale has offered the former Luton Town boss a 12-month deal to flag up any prospective signings, primarily south of the border.

A consultant scout at Spurs for 14 years, former Mail Sport columnist Pleat criticised Tottenham’s decision to cast aside his years of scouting experience in a recent interview


I was called in and informed: “It’s all data driven now we don’t need eyes and ears”. What nonsense. Data is all well and good when it enhances eyes and ears, not replaces them. I didn’t argue

Two or three people have spoken to me about things. We’ll see. But I’m not finished. How can I step away? When it comes to football, I’m afraid I’m a total obsessive.’

 

Plenty of experience and respect in the game.

 

Never really think much of this kind of news. Hopefully he can spot a few gems.

 

One for the future

 

Whit?

* was born before floodlights.

 

When did he leave Coronation Street?

 

He's aged terribly since Italia 90.

 

Consistent with of our recent record with promoting youth.

 

Be good if he can find a centre half and defensive midfielder of the quality of O'Riley.

 

Tons of experience and looks like he is still up for the job. Smart move by Paul Tisdale I think.

 

Not expecting or imagining much to come from this appointment.



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Seems a good appointment on paper, plenty of experience.

Still need a lot more added when it comes to our overall recruitment.

 

Topping up his lost winter fuel allowance.

 

We have slapped in a bid for tricky little Preston winger Nobby Stiles. 20k up front with add ons.

 

Waste of money, we shouldn't be employing 80 year olds in any capacity. Ridiculous.

 

Maybe we're bringing him in to scout younger scouts who can scout even younger scouts who scout players.

 

I dont think hes gonna rock up to Parkhead in a celtic trackie and a zimmer frame.

Probably more of a "do your thing down there, if you recommend a player, we'll do our homework, and you get a few bob for making the spot if we sign him".

 

Why would you want to work at 80.