Derek Pender claims Declan Devine has just landed ‘the best job in the country’ after taking charge at Bohemians.
And the club legend and caretaker boss is confident the Gypsies will become a force in Irish football again.
Devine was in the stands at Richmond Park last night and was given plenty of food for thought as Bohs lost 3-1 to St Pat’s.
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It was Pender’s final game in temporary charge with Devine officially getting to work on Monday morning.
Pender may yet remain part of the backroom staff, but claimed not to know what Devine’s plans were just yet.
Bohs are in a spiral after a miserable season but Pender believes it is still an attractive job.
“I honestly think this is the best job in the country, with the way the club is and the position it's in,” said their former captain and right-back.
“The foundations that have been laid over the last few years, it's an unbelievable job to have.
“Look at our fans, every week they sell out, we have nothing to play for as people say but they filled that end tonight.
“And it will be sold out again next week against Finn Harps with nothing to play for but it's the biggest job in the country.”
Bohs failed to lay a glove on St Pat’s but key men like Liam Burt and Ali Coote were curiously missing from the squad while Tyreke Wilson was injured.
Rumours about Burt and Coote’s futures at the club were swirling before kick-off so their absence was not a complete surprise.
Quizzed on it, Pender said: “Tyreke is injured and Ali and Liam were just not part of the squad.
“That's up to Declan, he will sit down next week and chat to them I am sure and see what happens.”
Pender continued: “It's been a disappointing year, let's be honest, from everyone, players, staff, we all haven't performed to what we should at this club.
“It hasn't been good enough from all of us, players are on the pitch and they will know themselves.
“It's up to them if they want to buy into what Bohs is as a club and I don't think everyone has this year. I’m sure people will be moving on at the end of the season.
Pender added: “I’ve done everything I can over the last five weeks, it's not gone as I would have hoped.
“Declan comes in and it's a great addition to the club. He has great energy and enthusiasm, I look forward to chatting to him and seeing what's ahead.
“He has a massive job [on his hands] but he knows that as well.”
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