Leicester City's Blue Army fan base were mildly relieved, and even partially optimistic, when Gary Rowett was touted as manager. When he got the job, one major acknowledgement was 'better the devil you know'. Meaning the former Foxes player wasn’t ideal (a bit of a Temu-Maresca) but fans could trust him, and ultimately knew where they stood.
That is probably a harsh assessment, but reality actually became worse - actuality hit the Foxes' relegation hopes and chances with a bite. In other words: the rather speculative appointment did not work!
Last season's Oxford United stabilising appears to have clouded LCFC judgement. Alternatively, the City owner merely couldn’t afford anyone else; whilst nobody of quality wanted the position either!
​Previously, Rowett appeared coy when questioned about his future, considering his short-term LE2 contract. Then he admitted that he did not believe he would stay beyond the current season.
Leicester City lobbyist
Subsequently, the 52-year-old is now absolutely lobbying for the role; it's like he's on Capitol Hill. Bless him.
Firstly Rowett suggested the role is a blessing and an honour; he said it will be a big attraction for bosses, and why. Then the ex-Stoke City and Millwall gaffer definitely chucked his hat back into the ring.
"After the Bristol City game when people asked me if I'd stay, I said 'I'm here until the end of the season and that's my job'. I didn't want to focus on anything else."Rowett - The Star
​This pivot from non-committal transient to ardent campaigner suggests a man seduced by the prestige of King Power Stadium; in spite of the turbulent waters he currently navigates. Rowett’s rhetoric has shifted from the pragmatic detachment of a "firefighter" to the impassioned plea of a visionary seeking a permanent seat at the table.
"of course you want to be part of that, of course you want to try and help and want to use your experience to be part of that."
While critics argue his tactical ceiling remains fixed in the stubborn paradigms of the EFL Championship (or, appropriatly League One-level), Rowett's sudden campaign for longevity highlights a desperate desire to prove that his failed utilitarian approach can eventually yield Premier League fruit. Whether the hierarchy shares this newfound romanticism remains doubtful.
"But I'm not going to sit here and try to put pressure on anyone. I've managed more than 600 games. If the club decide they want that type of manager moving forward, that's up to them. I'd also understand if they see it as a fresh start and a fresh opportunity to go in a different direction."
The East Midlands organisation could do a lot worse than old Gary. But then again, judging by his on-field results, tactics and forgiving persona, Leicester could also do a lot better!
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