PFA Exclusive interview: Anthony Hudson
Givemefootball talks to Anthony Hudon as he guides his Real Maryland Monarchs to the play-offs
Anthony Hudson’s success story continues in the USA after he has guided the Real Maryland Monarchs into the end of season play-offs.
The youngest professional coach in the USA - and son of former Chelsea and Stoke legend Alan – was handed his first managerial role at the Monarchs in the USL Division 2.
The league is two rungs below the MLS, which contains the likes of David Beckham and LA Galaxy, so Hudson is operating at a good standard.
A full-time professional league, the Monarchs had finished rock bottom last season, so Hudson had to rip up what was there and devise his own blueprint for success.
They have easily surpassed last year’s travails as Hudson’s stature continues to grow in the States, and he prepares for the play-offs on August 19 and 22 before the Championship final on August 29.
Givemefootball’s Ian Clarkson spoke exclusively to Hudson as he prepares his side for the biggest games of his fledgling managerial history.
Q: How have you found the regular season?
A: It's been a really good challenge and great experience for me, although I wish it had of started now as I feel we are really starting to put some strong performances in.
Q: Has it gone better than expected?
A: I think it’s gone 'as I expected'. For the most part I think we've underperformed at times. We've got a very strong group of players and early on I expected us to finish a little higher. But, it's not over yet and the best judgement will be after the play-offs.
Q: Who are you up against in the play-offs?
A: A team from Charlotte, North Carolina (Charlotte Eagles). There a very strong team, very experienced and have a good history.
Q: Are you a better coach than at the start of the season?
A: Absolutely, although I can’t wait to take a step back at the end of the season, there's a lot to reflect on.
Q: Who has been your biggest help this season?
A: The players. Without a doubt, with all the good, and especially the bad.
Q: What has been your style of play - Total Football or a more pragmatic approach?
A: We've tried to play football in every game we've played and at times I think it's cost us. But, we've certainly evolved throughout the season. I think we were a little over-ambitious at the start thinking we could go anywhere and beat anyone without worrying about the opposition.
We've been humbled into taking a slightly more intelligent approach, although we still think we can go anywhere and win. We are growing as a team.
Q: Is the standard improving all the time?
A: Absolutely, this league has definitely improved a great deal.
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