McKinlay had no second thoughts when Moyes sent out Spanish call

Billy McKinlay was always used to phoning Davie Moyes.

Over the years, he would give him a bell to tap into the experienced manager’s knowledge. Moyes was always happy to help, especially a fellow Scotsman.

But there was a role reversal last month. Paying his mum a visit at her house in Glasgow’s east end, McKinlay was surprised to find Moyes ringing him. And this time the former Manchester United and Everton boss needed something from him.

He offered McKinlay the chance to join him at Real Sociedad as his No.2. The opportunity to assist Moyes and work in the prestigious surroundings of La Liga was something McKinlay wasn’t going to refuse.

In his first interview since moving to Spain, McKinlay, 45, told The Sunday Post: “Davie phoned and asked me if I’d be interested in joining him. I didn’t need to be asked twice.

“It’s a tremendous opportunity for me to work at a great club, in one of the best leagues in the world and work for a man I have total respect and admiration for.

“I used to phone Davie up and ask for his advice. His door was always open and he’d always answer your call. For any young coach, trying to improve, that’s priceless to have someone of his ilk there for you when needed.

“He has always made time for young coaches. I phoned him a few times in the past decade. His judgment was always sound and he always pointed me in the right direction.

“Davie is an excellent manager and a winner. He has built teams in the past and improved them. He has a real eye for a player and has a reputation for developing and improving footballers.

“Working closely with him in the past few weeks has been a real eye opener. Within the game, he’s always had a reputation for being a grafter and being meticulous in all aspects.

“That reputation is spot on. He puts in endless hours. His attention to detail is first class and his preparation for training and games has given me a real education. I’m learning from Davie all the time.

“So, I’m delighted to be with him. After what happened to me at Watford, this has been perfect.”

In the past decade, McKinlay has earned himself an excellent reputation for his coaching ability. A few months ago he was given the chance to be his own man.

McKinlay was brutally axed by Watford owner Giampaolo Pozzo just eight days after he took over as Head Coach back in September. He had given up his role as Northern Ireland assistant manager to Michael O’Neill to take over at Vicarage Road.

The nasty experience left the former Dundee United and Scotland midfielder totally dejected.

Indeed, as they enjoy an evening meal together in San Sebastian, McKinlay and Moyes can share their experiences of how ruthless the game can be. Moyes, of course, was also brutally sacked by Manchester United earlier this year after just nine months in charge. He felt he wasn’t given enough time.

McKinlay reflected: “It was short and not so very sweet, to say the least, at Watford. But it was a learning curve and I took things out of it. I am better for that experience, albeit I would never want to go through that again.

“After that, I just wanted back into the game. I’m a grafter and I’ve been used to working all my life. I didn’t enjoy being out of the game.”

Following last night’s game at Levante, McKinlay flew back to the family home in London to spend Christmas. After the mini-break, La Liga resumes with Real Sociedad hosting Barcelona. Santa couldn’t have been any kinder.

McKinlay is relishing the prospect of facing Lionel Messi and Co and also looks forward to playing against European Champions, Real Madrid. McKinlay used to marvel at watching Ronaldo on the television as La Liga games were beamed live. Now he has to help come up with a plan to stop him.

Neither side will cause sleepless nights as McKinlay sees it as something to face head-on and believes in the Sociedad players.

He said: “The players have been brilliant. They are a really good bunch of lads and they have listened to what they have been told and tried their very best to implement the ideas and tactical instructions. To a man, their application and attitude has been first class and that’s made it really enjoyable. That’s been a real positive.

“In many ways, it’s like an old-fashioned football club. The fans are passionate and traditional. They want to see their team winning football matches and we will try to give them that as often as we can.

“I’ve no doubts Davie will deliver success to this club and there is a belief we will climb the table and away from any concerns about relegation. Barcelona will be a helluva tall order but it is not impossible to take something from the game.”

Off the park, McKinlay is enjoying the culture in northern Spain and said: “It’s a lovely part of the world. The locals have all been welcoming. The lifestyle out here is very enjoyable. For a Scotsman, the food has been great and I’ve enjoyed the weather. I’m relishing the change of culture.

“On a professional level, I’m looking forward to going to grounds such as the Bernabeu and the Nou Camp. It will be special to work there and be tested. That’s what being in the game is all about.

“I’ve been fortunate to have had a very good career as player and as a coach. I’ve coached for managers such as Roy Hodgson, Martin Jol and Michael O’Neill. Now I’m with Davie Moyes.

“I’ve always tried to make the most of any opportunities I’m given in life and this one will be no different.”