In case you missed it see what’s in this section
We recommend
Let's Talk
Your Total Guide To sport
Ling to Receive The Full Support Of The LMA
Former Swindon Town manager Martin Ling will be given all possible support available to him, says the League Managers Association (LMA)
Ling, who only took over at the helm at the County Ground in early November, handed in his resignation last week in order to focus on his health and wellbeing.
Since his unveiling, fortunes had somewhat turned in SN1, with a string of five victories out of eight games elevating the Robins out of their relegation zone dwellings.
Citing health reasons for his need to step away from the club, Ling's Swindon exit drew parallels to his departure from Torquay United in 2013, when the 49-year-old had to take a break away from the game while suffering from depression.
Speaking last weekend on BBC Five Live's sportsweek programme Richard Bevan, chief executive of the LMA, touched upon the topic of Ling's departure and insisted the East Londoner would have all the support required.
“Back in 2009, he (Ling) thought he had a virus but in all walks of life, time and health are two very precious commodities and he knows that good mental health is very important for peak performance," said Bevan.
"He is getting the very best help and support," he added.
Bevan then outlined the matter of mental illness within football and stressed the role and willingness of the LMA in providing support.
“Asking for help is not a weakness," Bevan began.
"Recognising when it is time to stand down and making sure that you are ready to come back in whatever role, coaching or management, in the future.
“In the last 24 months, over 30 families have used the confidential helpline. Not just managers but also members of the family - that includes coaches also.
“I think what is important is making sure in our masterclasses and in the LMA learning, that leadership is all about learning and making sure that when you need help, you ask for it," he added.
Ling's battle with depression following his departure from Torquay United forms a case example in the book Living On The Volcano, by sportswriter and Independent on Sunday lead columnist Michael Calvin.
Speaking to Total Sport following Ling's unveiling as Robins manager in November, Calvin both praised the courage of Ling and also commended the work done by the LMA.
Calvin said: "“I think people should also look at the work the LMA do. They looked after Martin and paid for his treatment and, my suspicion is, he was not the first and he won’t be the last to go through that type of thing."
Calvin then went on to describe the unity and brotherhood in the world of football managment, which he experienced first-hand when writing his book.
“When Martin was coming out of it (the illness), that’s when the phone calls began – Sir Alex Ferguson, Sam Allardyce, Chris Hughton all phoning him when he was in the hospital.
"He (Ling) said it was almost as if the word had got out that ‘one of our own is in trouble,'” Calvin added.
The vacant managerial position at Swindon Town left by Ling will now be filled by assistant manager Luke Williams in the interim, until a suitable candidate is identified to fill the hot-seat.
Weather in Swindon
Listings