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ALAN SHEEHAN has recognized that working alongside Craig Bellamy in the Wales squad has reignited his strong ambition to excel as a top coach again.
The former manager of Swansea has joined the Welsh national team as an assistant coach, focusing on enhancing their attacking set pieces.
Sheehan observes that experiencing Bellamy’s unyielding intensity has further fueled his desire to return to club management.
He shared with SunSport: “Working with Wales, alongside Craig and the team, has rekindled my excitement for getting back into management.”
“My foremost objective is to become a No.1 again.
“I possess a clear vision of what I want to achieve, the level at which I can compete, and my ambition is to reach the pinnacle of success.”
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“I’ve had opportunities for head coach positions, but timing is crucial; when the moment feels right, that’s when it’s appropriate to act.
“You find clubs where you sense: ‘Absolutely, I can build something significant here.’
“Then there are others where that initial spark is simply absent.
“It’s about relying on your instincts and ensuring that there’s genuine alignment with the owners and sporting directors before proceeding with your next move.”
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Sheehan’s tenure as manager of Swansea came to an unexpected conclusion last season, despite achieving 16 wins from 39 matches and maintaining an unbeaten streak in 27 of those.
The ambitious 40-year-old Irishman firmly believes that his exceptional record in the Championship demonstrates his capabilities.
He stated: “When you ascend as the interim manager, you must consistently deliver results for the club. In the Championship, it’s essential to find ways to secure wins.
“It was important for me to reflect, learn from my experiences, and carry that knowledge forward rather than hastily entering the wrong role.”
Bellamy, recognized for his fervor, has made a significant impact on international football with his uncompromising standards and proactive playing style.
Sheehan emphasizes that the former Liverpool and Manchester City player demands full transparency in the locker room.
He expressed: “Craig is thorough and leads with conviction — he has complete confidence in himself.
“He welcomes sincere feedback and doesn’t want individuals who merely agree with everything.
“We engage in constructive dialogues, but once a decision is made, everyone is entirely on board.”
This month’s international camp was intense, featuring four matches in just 10 days — including double-headers against Denmark and matches with Norway and Portugal.
Sheehan teamed up with players Ashley Williams, Andrew Crofts, and Martin Margetson, taking charge of the squad’s set-piece tactics.
He remarked: “Set pieces are pivotal in international football.
“With limited time to work with players, getting every detail right can make the difference in closely contested matches.”
“The players’ dedication was remarkable. They appreciate the clarity, structure, and undeniable intensity of our daily tasks.”
Before assuming his international role, Sheehan embarked on a valuable research journey throughout Europe.
He visited clubs in Austria, Sweden, Belgium, and Germany to explore various training methodologies, tactical strategies, and recruitment techniques.
He even began learning German and is eager to acquire other languages to foster connections within diverse teams.
Sheehan explained: “I committed time to visiting clubs across the continent to understand how different cultures operate.
“I’ve started learning new languages to enhance my skills.
“Contemporary dressing rooms are incredibly diverse, and speaking multiple languages helps cultivate personal relationships with players.”
Now invigorated and equipped with international experience, Sheehan is poised to make his return to the coaching arena.
He concluded: “All my current efforts are focused on bettering myself as a coach and leader.
“I fully comprehend the demands of today’s game, the tactical aspects, and how to achieve results.
“When the right opportunity arises, I’m ready to step in.”