Philliskirk discloses why he didn't join Dowie at Crystal Palace

Last updated : 23 December 2003 By Dave Moore

Tony Philliskirk has disclosed the reasons why he did not follow Iain Dowie to Crystal Palace, an offer which was very tempting. Philliskirk who lives in Royton said, “I could have gone as Iain’s assistant, and I’ve had sleepless nights over the decision. Only time will tell whether it would have benefited my career, but I know for sure it wouldn’t have helped my family life. I was tempted, but Palace’s location had a bearing because my children are aged nine and 12 and we are settled here. It would have been a huge step to uproot them during the most formative years of their lives. In the end, I wasn’t prepared to do it.”

“There was the option to stay down there on my own and commute every other weekend, but my family life still would have suffered. Iain is disappointed and, in some respects, so am I. But family came before career and I’ve always enjoyed working at Oldham. Maybe I’m doing myself a disservice, but I’m not sure I’m ready. My strength at the moment is coaching, although management might be attractive when I’ve got a bit more experience.”

Philliskirk will continue to work on youth development as Athletic will need to concentrate more and more on home grown talent. He added, “Nobody’s sure what will happen at any level yet, but a lot of my old under-19s side are now playing in the first team. The club’s infrastructure means youth will be vital.”