Palmer out to repeat heroics
AFTER making a name for himself in coaching circles by guiding Maritzburg United to the Absa Premiership four seasons ago, Ian Palmer has embarked on a similar mission at Blackburn Rovers.
"It is not fair that such a massive province as Eastern Cape does not have a club in the Premiership," said Palmer in an interview with Sowetan after the team's morning gym session in East London.
Palmer, the former Orlando Pirates striker and assistant coach, joined Rovers three weeks ago. Rovers were promoted to the National First Division in May after winning the Safa Vodacom League national playoffs.
"It is an honour to have been offered the job to coach Blackburn Rovers. The owners of the club approached me early last month at a time when I was hoping to get a new team in the Premiership as a head coach," Palmer said.
"I took Maritzburg United from this division to the Premiership during the 2006-07 season. I was able to lay a solid foundation for the club and that is why they are still in the Premiership.
"The plan is to do the same with Blackburn Rovers. The Eastern Cape province has not had a Premiership club for a long time, since Bush Bucks were relegated. There is talent in abundance here, which is why I brought a few experienced players to beef up the team."
The new players include former South African Under-23 international Jermaine Christian, Swazi international Wonder Nhleko and Bafana Nhlapo.
