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Warnock is the real deal for Farke
Norwich City boss Daniel Farke will try to get the better of Neil Warnock in a Championship tussle at Middlesbrough Picture: Paul Chesterton/Focus Images Ltd - Credit: Paul Chesterton/Focus Images Ltd
Neil Warnock is one of the game’s ‘lovable characters’ for Norwich City rival Daniel Farke.
The Middlesbrough chief’s abrasive presence on the touchline does not always endear him to the opposition, or officialdom, but Farke admitted he is a huge admirer ahead of today’s Championship duel.
Warnock started out in management in 1980 at Gainsborough Trinity and has won a record eight promotions in four decades.
“I like him a lot. I love big characters and he is a big character in this game,” said Farke. “He has done it over so many years. I always speak about how quality is something you have to prove over the longer term, and you look at how many promotions he has won as a coach. He is so experienced and still full of energy, full of motivation.
“You can always see his hand writing on his teams. Whether you like the way they play or you don’t like it. You have to admire this. That is a sign of the coach’s quality. Maybe a different style to our way but I am full of respect.
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“His teams always play with lots of energy, with lots of fighting spirit and they are always so difficult to beat. He brings a great mentality to his players and that is in their hearts, their souls.
“It is always great to be around him at the games. I love every chat I have with him. It is such a good time. So funny.
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“He is experienced and greedy to win but away from the games he is very relaxed. After a game you can have a great time with him and it is always a pleasure to see him. I really like what he is doing.”
Warnock himself revealed in the build-up Ben Gibson could have been lining up in the opposition ranks on Saturday, but the Teessiders were unable to match City’s financial clout to seal an initial season long loan move from Burnley.
Gibson is fit for duty against his old club after sitting out the 1-0 Championship win over Swansea prior to the international break.
“I think it is the first time Ben plays against them since he left,” said Farke. “It might have been even more emotional for him in front of a full stadium, and he had to find 247 tickets for all his family and friends.
“He is a professional and an intelligent guy. I don’t expect he will be over-motivated or distracted. If picked, I trust him to produce a top performance.”
