Had a great chat with Ian Deakin, who is back at the club as commercial executive, and he told me about his time at the club, how he still calls Paul Cox 'the Gaffer' to this day, his injury nightmares and the one that almost killed him, plus his thoughts on his new role, his success as manager of Long Eaton United and how he would like to manage in the EFL one day.
They're split into four pieces as one would be far too long - great guy and going great guns at Long Eaton right now - unbeaten in the league last seasdon and this so far.
My injury-riddled career and the one that nearly killed me - Deakin
https://www.chad.co.uk/sport/football/e ... im-3478365
Deakin on his season at Stags and his relationship with Paul Cox and Alan Marriott
https://www.chad.co.uk/sport/football/f ... in-3478229
Deakin delighted with his new role at Stags and hoping to still get Long Eaton promoted as their manager too.
https://www.chad.co.uk/sport/football/e ... wn-3475744
Deakin has an ambition to manage in the EFL one day after shining at non-league level.
https://www.chad.co.uk/sport/football/e ... in-3475741