I’m sure Eilon Kennet won’t mind me comparing his return to London Maccabi Lions to that of Kenny Dalglish at Liverpool a couple of years ago.
Eyebrows were raised when Kennet’s second coming at Rowley Lane came to an end and the father-and-son team of Malcolm and Josh Newman was brought in to replace him. For one reason or another things didn’t work out and Andy Landesberg stepped in as interim boss. He turned things around dramatically and, with the help of coach James Gershfield, steered the team to JC Cyril Anekstein Cup glory.
As Landesberg says, Kennet is returning to his “spiritual home”. He’s like part of the furniture at the Lane and his knowledge and experience will ensure the team are in contention for major silverware again.
Dalglish won the Carling Cup in his first season back and Kennet’s winning mentality is sure to bring out the best in a young and hungry Lions pack.
* The search is on to find the most capped Maccabian. GB cricket stalwart Neil Myeroff is high on the list having been involved in 10 Maccabiot, either as a player or in a managerial capacity.
There’s also Peter Lazard who is preparing for his eighth consecutive Games. Having debuted in 1985, Peter remains an example to us all and he holds something of a unique record as he’s played football and cricket.
Stuart Lustigman’s name is also in the hat. He will be attending his seventh Maccabiah, spanning some 24 years since he was appointed assistant GB team manager for the Games in 1989 and then GB team manager in 1993 and 1997.
Stuart chaired the International Maccabiah Sports Committee for the Games of 2001 and 2005 and continued to serve on that committee for the Games of 2009 and 2013.
* In the week where Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich celebrated 10 years in charge at Stamford Bridge, Juan Mata was spotted on the beaches of Tel Aviv.
The midfield maestro looked in reflective mood as he mulled over Spain’s 3-0 Confederations Cup final defeat against Brazil at the Maracana. He certainly didn’t look in a hurry to get back to Jose Mourinho’s pre-season training.
* Whoever left the Team GB over-35 Masters football squad’s notes on the dressing room wall at Rowley Lane deserves a slap on the wrists.
I’ve received offers to reveal top secret information on which players will take set-pieces, who will defend where at corners and even who will take a penalty should they be involved in a shootout at the Maccabiah Games.
It could be the difference between gold or silver, but don’t worry lads, you’re secrets are safe with me!
