It’s been over a week now since a ‘spy’ sent by the Leeds United manager Marcelo Bielsa to watch their Championship opponents Derby County train was apprehended at the Rams’ training ground and the ensuing scandal just seems to rumble on and on.
The Argentine didn’t exactly help matters yesterday, though, when he called a press conference in which he gave a PowerPoint presentation to perplexed journalists detailing just how much research he and his team do into each team they play. Showing the flair you might expect from a Latin crooner, he completed the lengthy affair with a mic drop.
After that affair ensured that ‘spygate’ would stay in the news and that fellow managers would be asked about it in length in their own pre-match media obligations ahead of this weekend’s action. Here’s what a few of those other coaches said.
Steven Gerrard, Rangers:
"It's been a surprise. We have to protect the integrity of the game. I'm certainly someone who believes in fair play and respect.
"I think Leeds have overstepped the mark in this case. I think the people that be need to adapt the rules."
Brendan Rodgers, Celtic:
"I've seen the word cheating being used but I think it's a bit strong. Bielsa mentioned the culture of where he's from. It doesn't make it right but it's something that's probably gone on for a number of years."
Alex Neil, Preston:
"What amazes me is he's just come out and said 'yeah, I've been doing it and I've been doing it for a while' and doesn't make any apologies, like he's going to continue doing it.
"What amazes me even more is the press lauding him for it, like they think it's great. I just think it's bizarre. I think it's a little bit underhand."
Ralph Hasenhuttl, Southampton:
"You got a tactical lesson from him? That's nice. I think people outside maybe don't know how managers are working."
Chris Hughton, Brighton:
"I don't think it's right. But everyone will think differently, everyone will have their different views on it.
