Teale: We’ve got a licence to thrill

Jul 18 2011 by Paul Behan, Paisley Daily Express

WING king Gary Teale reckons Danny Lennon’s football philosophy will suit him down to the ground.

Teale was one of several Saints stars who stood out during Saturday’s 4-2 win over Morton in the Renfrewshire Cup final.

The former Wigan man had an excellent first half and was central to pretty much everything Saints did going forward.

And former Scotland ace Teale, 32, believes St Mirren’s new licence to thrill is all down to what the manager preaches in training.

He said: “It’s a great way to play football and it’s a brave way.

“And while mistakes can be made in that approach, it’s about reducing them as much as you can.

“Barcelona have set the benchmark now for everybody else but I think a lot of managers are trying to get into that philosophy of trying to play football.

“We went through a long period of time where results were everything but now managers maybe want their teams to be more technical. And if we can do that, then I will be more than delighted.

“We are in the entertainment business and you obviously want to try to put on entertainment for the fans and get punters back through the door.”

Teale started on the right flank but was later handed a free role to roam.

And he showed just why Lennon was so keen to sign him with a very encouraging display.

He said: “I’ve predominantly played wide right my whole career but the way I’ve always wanted to play football is to try to be on the ball as much as possible.

“When you are out wide, you rely an awful lot on other people to try to get the ball out to you.

“Whereas, if you can go wandering and try to get on the ball, even if it’s just one or two touches and you are moving, then you can get into wee pockets of space and still feel involved.”