Beyond The Transformation at Crystal Palace - Oladayo Akin

The English Premier League (EPL) season has come and gone. And as usual, it was fun all through till the last day of the league. As much as there was fun, there were lessons to be learnt also. One of such lessons formed the basis of this write up.
So much praises has been showered on the manager of Crystal Palace, Tony Pulis for his transformation of Crystal Palace Football Club. While not taking anything away from Tony Pulis tactical genius, I think and believe the unsung hero in the transformation is Mr Ian Holloway, Crystal Palace former manager.
I have to personally admit that I was surprised when Ian Holloway announced that he was leaving Crystal Palace. What got me more surprised was the reason he gave for leaving. In his words and I quote:
“This Club needs an impetus of energy. But I just feel tired to be honest. I am worn out. I have to hold my hand up and say we didn’t keep the spirit that got us up”
Mr Ian Holloway left Palace after just eight (8) league games and thirty (30) league games to go in the English Premier League. Even though results has not been going his way with just a win and seven (7) losses in eight (8) league games, thirty (30) league games to virtually all 21st century managers is a lot to change the fortunes of any sinking club. But rather than wait to see the fortunes the 30 league games will bring, Mr Ian Holloway like Robin Van Persie listened to the little boy inside him and left Palace by mutual consent. After leaving, Tony Pulis was appointed the new manager of the club. The appointment of Tony Pulis injected new life into the club and brought about the listed results below.
Crystal Palace finished 11th on the English Premier League log which by their standard is a remarkable success.
Selhurst Park, the current home ground of Palace is somehow turning out to be a fortress ground against big guns. If you think am exaggerating on this, ask Chelsea and Liverpool fans.
Tony Pulis who prior to his take over at Crystal Palace has never won an individual award in the English Premier League was voted the Premier League manager of the year.
One may not but asked this question; what if Ian Holloway decided to remain as manager of Crystal Palace and fight for survival? This is a question begging for answers. Answers could probably be:
He may eventually get sacked if the poor runs continue. That will be a dent to his managerial career.
He may eventually get Crystal Palace to stay in the Premier League but definitely not the miraculous manner Tony Pulis has done it many will argue.
Crystal Palace may relegate back to the championship after just a season in the top flight of the English Football.

Looking at the possible answers above, one can easily draw up conclusion that Ian Holloway leaving the club has done more good than harm to the club.

In all, I praise the man Ian Holloway for that bold and selfless move. Many of his contemporaries would not dare it, they will wait till the club show them the way out. It is a moral lesson for all of us that sometimes when we seem not to be in control of some situations any longer, to quit is an option which can bring about desirable success to such situations.

Thanks and congratulation to Manchester City Football Club on winning the English Premier League. It was well deserved.