Matt Jarvis and Rob Edwards briefly shared a spell at Wolves, and the former believes that the new head coach was never going to turn down the chance to manage the Old Gold.
Edwards’ decision to leave Middlesbrough caused quite a stir, with Simon Jordan feeling the 42-year-old had no right to leave Boro for Wolves.
Meanwhile, Alan Shearer believed Edwards’ move was harsh on the Championship side as they look to gain promotion to the Premier League.
However, the new Old Gold boss’ former teammate Matt Jarvis thinks it was never in question as to whether he would jump ship at the chance to manage at Molineux.
Matthew Jarvis of Wolverhampton Wanderers celebrates after scoring a goal
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Matt Jarvis shares why Rob Edwards would not have turned down Wolves
Matt Jarvis and Rob Edwards were together for just one year at Wolves.
Edwards’ spell lasted from 2004 to 2008, and the winger joined towards the end of that in 2007, but that has not stopped Jarvis from giving an insight into his decision to swap Middlesbrough for the Old Gold.
Speaking after the announcement, Jarvis said via BBC Sport, “He’s got a lot of affection for Wolves. He spent many years there. I think of family.
“He started his managerial career there in the academy, and he has worked his way through. So it has got a lot of pull for him. Obviously in football you never know when your next chance [will be] or what you are going to do [next].
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“So for him this opportunity has come up, and I don’t think it was ever possible for him to turn it down. It is a huge honour for him to go and manage the club, and obviously disappointment will be there from Middlesbrough fans, but for him, there is a huge pull to go back and manage the club that he played for.”
It was certainly a correct assessment from Jarvis, with Edwards reiterating that managing Wolves was a dream job for him.
When Wolves came calling, the decision was clear for Rob Edwards
“Wolves is a special club for me. It’s where I grew as both a player and a coach, it’s where my family calls home. It has always been my dream to come back and these opportunities do not come around too often.”
Rob Edwards should not be criticised for his choice
While there are many out there believing it was poor form from Rob Edwards to leave Middlesbrough amid their push for promotion, those criticising him must accept he is human, and he made the best decision for his family.
The former Wales international still has family living in the Black Country, and while his ties to the club were a factor, the familial aspect was also significant.
Edwards does have his supporters. Jacqui Oatley defended his decision for this very reason, and that it was not solely based on football.
It is understandable why Middlesbrough fans will have a sour taste in their mouths, and you cannot blame them for being frustrated that the man who has put them in such a good position has left mid-season.
The timing is terrible, but you cannot fault Rob Edwards for making a decision that not only betters himself but also his family.