GROVES IS BACK IN THE GROOVE WITH TIGERS

GLOUCESTER CITY’S New Meadow Park home is a world away from Maccabi Haifa’s Municipal Stadium in Israel, but for new Tigers boss Paul Groves it’s been the perfect transition.

- MATT BADCOCK

It was only a couple of months ago the 54-year-old was in the opposite dug-out to Jose Mourinho against Tottenham in the Europa League.

Then assistant, the former Grimsby Town boss has stepped back into the manager’s seat on home soil with the National League North side.

The former Burton Albion, Leicester City, Blackpool, Grimsby, West Brom and Stafford Rangers man is well travelled.

From a career that started in the Premier League to first team coach for Harry Redknapp at Birmingham City and Avram Grant at West Ham United, his travels have also taken him to the Indian Super League as John Gregory’s assistant at Chennaiyn.

“Both of those experiences have been invaluable,” Groves says. “Culturally and as a life experience they’ve been fantastic. The spell I’ve just had in Israel was thoroughly enjoyable.

“Football takes you places you may never go and brings about experiences you’d never have in this country.

“I enjoyed my time in India. The people there are fantastic. The culture they have is a pleasure to be around. Israel was excellent, the majority of the time being at the top of the league and working with players who were able to keep them there so it was a fantastic experience.

Journey

“The fans I experienced in both India and Israel were passionate and fanatical about their team – and football. People love football. I’m fortunate I’m working in football. No matter what level it is, for me, it’s the job I want to do. I’m hungry to be successful.”