‘There are two sides to my personality’ – Claude Puel
‘Whispering Claude’ Puel showed a different side to his nature vocally and later physically in celebration. But what makes the Leicester City boss tick?
Contrary to his usual demeanour, Claude Puel was clearly ecstatic as Leicester City defeated his former club Southampton. Puel barked loud orders at his squad during the game. He punched the air and ran on to the pitch when the winning goal went in. And who can blame him – following the saints forcing him out after an 8th place finish and cup final appearance.
Leicester were losing on Saturday, after Southampton captain Ryan Bertrand finished well. Until Demarai Gray and finally Harry Maguire won the Foxes the points. Puel was asked questions about his reaction, disposition and thoughts on the victory immediately after the match:
"“I say there are two aspects to my personality, like I was as a player.“When I was a player I was an aggressive player with a fighting spirit and enjoyed contact. I had a strong character but off the pitch I am calm. I try to analyse. It is important.“Sometimes it is good to celebrate. I was happy for my players and the squad because it was a tough game. We played a very good team.“To keep this result (0-0) until the half-time with a good structure, mentality and by working together. We came back in the second half with the same desire but also with good use of the ball.” – Claude Puel (Via: Leicester Mercury)"
It is thrilling for neutrals to see an away side win in injury time and even more exhilarating for the faithful if the manager goes as bonkers as the excellent travelling support. In contrast, a philosophical, gentle and calm spoken exterior emerges off the pitch. Yet, in Puel’s playing career he and others talk of a tenacious tackling, combative midfielder.
According to Sky Sports: “French journalist Damien Dubras believes Southampton’s new manager Claude Puel was the last good coach left in France”. This, before accepting the job at Southampton and leading them from a relatively lowly situation. The Leicester City executives seemingly chose more carefully than some suggested at the time of Craig Shakespeare’s well-timed demise. Although, Shakespeare will forever be fondly remembered for his role in the title triumph.
Subsequently to explaining his character when interviewed; Puel added more about the winning day in Southern England. Suggesting that Leicester City beat the “fantastic” Wolves at the King Power Stadium and overcame a similar challenge at St. Mary’s versus Southampton. Describing the Premier League as “crazy”, the former player cited the importance of keeping momentum. Along with a “good mentality, and some humility.”
Can we just take a minute to appreciate Puel charging a good 10 yards on to the pitch and double fist-pumping like his head was about to explode when Maguire scored the winner.
— James Sharpe (@TheSharpeEnd) August 25, 2018
Despite the 56-year-old’s self confesses Jekyll and Hyde persona, the Frenchman insists beating his former club – whom sacked him slightly unfairly – had no bearing on his exuberant celebration:
"“No, no, nothing about this because I have a lot of respect for all the people who work at Southampton.”“I said we played a good team. They played as well against Everton and I am sure they will have a good season.“It was just the circumstance of the game, because it was a tough game. It was difficult to play this team.“We had a good desire to stay calm and give a good reaction, to play in the second half of the and to win in added time is a fantastic feeling.“I am happy for my players, for the fans and everyone altogether. My celebration, I was always like this when I was happy at my former clubs.”– Claude Puel (Via: Leicester Mercury)"
Ultimately we have seen the Leicester City gaffer jubilant and jumping with joy previously. And why shouldn’t he? It is a distinct success to take your new team – while undertaking a complete overhaul of style currently in progress – to your previous side and win twice. Once convincingly and secondly when not firing on all cylinders. Patience is an important virtue for the new look Foxes.
Next. 3 Things learned v Southampton. dark
To be absolutely honest, Puel has the perfect balance: meticulous thought process and preparation under a tranquil demeanour. Contrasted by well placed emotion and expressing a relatable revelry for his squad’s pleasure and indulgence. In conclusion, Puel is a man on a mission: focused on his evolutionary tweaks. And, hopefully, he will succeed at Leicester. Do not underestimate the quiet ones.