After an extensive independent review highlighted significant issues with the A-League club’s recent player recruitment, Perth Glory director of football Dave Mitchell has been dismissed, as his position has been deemed redundant.
Mitchell assumed the role of Glory coach during the 2007/08 season but stepped down after the ninth round this season, following a streak of four consecutive losses.
Despite having one of the league’s highest-paid squads—including former Socceroos Mile Sterjovski, Jacob Burns, Chris Coyne, former Bundesliga striker Branko Jelic, and Liverpool icon Robbie Fowler—the Glory struggled to finish in a dismal 10th place, managing only five wins and narrowly escaping the wooden spoon.
A detailed review of the club’s shortcomings, led by former Fremantle Dockers chief executive David Hatt with input from Kookaburras coach Ric Charlesworth, uncovered significant deficiencies in the Glory’s player recruitment strategy.
In October, Mitchell transitioned into the newly established director of football role.
However, given his primary responsibility for the majority of player signings over the past two seasons, he faced consequences.
“There is no doubt that recruitment over the past two years has been largely unsuccessful,” Hatt noted in the report.
“More needs to be done in the recruitment area to guard against the presence of players who simply seek a superannuated end to their careers.
“The importance of achieving favorable recruiting outcomes for Perth Glory is paramount at this time.”
The report advised, “With all factors considered, the club should prioritize youth, specifically Western Australian youth, when making recruitment decisions and lean towards players exhibiting speed and agility (assessed by a credible source such as AIS, WAIS, VIS, etc.).”
Owner Tony Sage reaffirmed his dedication to the club, despite incurring millions of dollars in losses since his takeover, while Ian Ferguson will continue as coach.
Furthermore, the review highlighted an urgent necessity for the Glory to create a joint training and administration facility in collaboration with the governing body, Football West, likely at a tertiary institution.
The review also proposed establishing a players’ leadership group, as well as exploring alternative venues for matches to alleviate the overwhelming playing costs at nib Stadium.
Buford Balony says: About time, Ferguson next.