Tim Krul, the former Newcastle United goalkeeper, has a unique perspective on the club’s managerial history. Over nine years at St James’ Park, he played under eight different managers. His journey began under Glenn Roeder and culminated in significant success with Alan Pardew.
Alan Pardew’s Impact on Tim Krul
Alan Pardew is a standout figure in Krul’s career. Pardew awarded him the number one goalkeeper position, a role Krul aspired to from the moment he joined Newcastle. Krul expressed admiration for Pardew’s ability to inspire his squad, noting how he maintained a winning mentality.
“When I signed for the club, my goal was to be the number one goalkeeper. Alan took three years to give me that chance,” Krul recalled. “Despite good performances and team success, I had to wait until I kept a clean sheet for the national team against Brazil. After that, Pardew finally told me it was my shirt to lose.”
Success Under Pardew
The trust Pardew placed in Krul significantly boosted his confidence. Following their pivotal conversation, the team embarked on an 11-game unbeaten streak. Pardew’s coaching style not only nurtured Krul’s talents but also fostered a strong team spirit.
Innovative Managers at Newcastle
While Pardew had a lasting impact, Krul acknowledged the contributions of other managers. Sam Allardyce, in particular, was recognized for his forward-thinking approach to health and fitness. He emphasized nutrition and introduced strategies focused on achieving marginal gains.
- Glenn Roeder: Gave Krul his debut.
- Graeme Souness: Conducted unique training sessions emphasizing fitness.
- Sam Allardyce: Focused on nutrition, bringing in specialists to enhance players’ performance.
Tim Krul reflects on his experiences, stating, “Each manager taught me valuable lessons, and I take a piece of that knowledge with me.” His career, enriched by diverse coaching styles, underscores the importance of effective management in a footballer’s development.
Conclusion
Alan Pardew’s impact on Tim Krul at Newcastle United was significant. His trust and coaching helped shape Krul into a top-tier goalkeeper. Meanwhile, the innovative practices of managers like Allardyce and the foundational experiences with Roeder and Souness contributed to Krul’s growth in the sport.
