David Jeffrey believes the patience he learned during his long tenure at Linfield is the virtue his new Portadown side need most. The former Blues boss made the comment ahead of his current team's Premiership clash with his old club at Shamrock Park on Tuesday night.
Jeffrey succeeded Trevor Anderson as Linfield manager in January 1997 and enjoyed a trophy-laden reign. His successor, David Healy, has now been in charge for almost 11 years, leading the club to a record-equalling 31 trophies and earning steadfast boardroom support. "Healy has earned the support of the board at Windsor Park," the Irish News reported.
Contrasting fortunes
That stability stands in stark contrast to Jeffrey's current challenge. Portadown had failed to pick up a single point under his leadership at the time of the report, following a 4-2 home defeat to Glenavon in the Mid Ulster Cup. Meanwhile, Linfield have surged to second in the Premiership with 15 points from six games, their only blemish a 3-0 opening day loss to Ballymena United. Since that defeat, David Healy's side have won five consecutive league matches, including a 1-0 victory over Dungannon Swifts last weekend.
The wider context
Linfield's form has them just one point behind leaders Coleraine, who were unbeaten at the time of the report. A victory for the Blues on Tuesday, coupled with a Coleraine loss at the Oval, would see them lift into top spot. Cliftonville, set to play Larne, were likely to remain below Linfield in the standings. Ballymena United, who stunned Windsor Park on the opening day, had lost three of their four subsequent league games.
Jeffrey pointed to the long-term view cultivated at his former club. "Patience is a virtue, but it’s not a widespread characteristic in football," he said. The sentiment shows the rebuilding task he faces, while Linfield, under Healy's enduring guidance, continue to challenge for honours. Fans can check the latest league standings and upcoming fixtures as the title race heats up. Linfield's next match is a key home encounter against league leaders Coleraine on November 7.
Background and full detail: The Irish News
