Manager prepared for familiar foes against old club Glens
FAMILIARITY, so the old saying goes, breeds contempt, but in the case of Stephen Robinson and Glentoran it is only generating concern and respect.
The Motherwell manager has coached most of the team his side will face in the one- off Europa League first qualifying round at Fir Park this evening in the past and is acutely aware that victory is by no means assured.
“We won’t be underestimating Glentoran in any shape or form,” said the Northern Irishman. “I know every one of their players. I’ve worked with probably 90 per cent of them over various age groups levels – under- 21s down to under 16s.
“I’ve had the vast majority of the team at some stage.
I know their attributes and their weaknesses. We’ll know what to expect. We’ve prepared very well for it and we expect a tough game.”
Robinson added: “I don’t think the game against Torshavn [ Glentoran won
1- 0 in the preliminary round in Belfast last week] was an indication of where they are. Northern Irish football is very much on the way up.
“There are teams which are practically full- time now. There’s been a lot of investment into clubs – players signing for £ 40,000. There’s a lot of money going into Northern Irish football which is good to see.
“Glentoran had a barren period, but are now coming back again. There’s been money put into the football club and they’ve brought in good players. It’s good to see for Northern Ireland football.
“We have to deal with them and I’m confident we will. We’re looking forward to it and we’ll be well prepared for the task ahead.”
Robinson is certainly well aware of the problems that Glentoran midfielder Gael Bigirimana can pose Motherwell; he worked with him at Fir Park for over a season and urged his opposite number Mick McDermott to sign him during the summer.
“I actually got him to Glentoran,” he said. “Mick asked me about Bigi. I recommended him to numerous people. Glentoran have taken a chance on him and I think they are reaping the benefits.
“He is a super boy and when boys conduct themselves like
Bigi does, then you always try to help them throughout their career. He is probably the most unselfish player I have come across. Most of them aren’t! He is someone who cares about everyone else and tries to do help everyone else on and off the pitch. He is just a wonderful human being, a really great guy and we wish him all the best bar tomorrow night. I’m surprised nobody has taken a gamble on him in the Premiership. Obviously, we’ve got a very good midfield. He’s a great boy and I’m glad to see him back in football and not lost to football. He’s got good people working with him again.
“We’re well aware of Biggie. We’re well aware of the dangers and threats he brings from set plays and on the ball. We will aim to nullify him.”