Mansfield Town manager Nigel Clough claimed football has changed in recent years, with social media largely to blame.
In comparison to the 59-year-old’s playing days, he was adamant that modern-day football is completely different, largely at the detriment of today’s players.
The rise of social media usage by players and fans alike, coupled with the added pressures it brings, is something that Clough disagrees with.
He said: “I personally never go on it for one second of my life,but I understand a lot of the younger lads find it important for them.
“I don’t think at our level [League One] you need social media; it impacts the mental health of players.”
Experienced defender Deji Oshilaja reinforced Clough’s point, while providing a more relatable and youthful point of view.
He said: “These days, players are more like brands, so they use it [social media] as a marketing tool, especially at higher levels.
“But the positives outweigh the negatives – bad news travels well and sells better.
“As a player you know when you play bad, so social media doesn’t help.”
The rise of social media in years gone by has meant fans can easily voice their opinions directly to players, potentially putting their mental health at risk, should they pay attention to it.
However, Clough reinforced that injuries can also negatively impact his squad’s mindset – particularly midfielder Matthew Craig, on loan from Tottenham Hotspur.
The ex-England international provided an innovative plan for injured players in the form of his Hungarian Vizsla, Bobbie.
He said: “Bobbie is like a therapy dog around the place – even coming in the meetings with us!
“There’s real emphasis on player’s mental health these days, and injuries can hugely impact that.
“Walking my dog is the best part of recovery for the injured lads – they say it’s the best hour of the day.”
Clough will hope that his recovery plan will pay off for the Stags in their fight for League One survival, as they require one last push to stay in the division.
Mansfield sit in 17th place, eight points above the relegation zone, and hope to stay in the league for the first time in 35 years.
