Richie Foran has credited former Caley Thistle manager Terry Butcher as the man who rescued his career and inspired his move into management.
Butcher took a chance on Foran by signing him for Motherwell in 2004 following his release by English side Carlisle United, with the Irishman having struggled to find a new club following three red cards, 31 yellow cards and two court appearances during his three-year stint at Brunton Park.
Foran went on to enjoy a successful stint with the Steelmen, and although he moved to Southend United in January 2007, the pair were reunited at Caley Thistle two years later.
The 36-year-old ended his playing career to replace John Hughes as manager and believes working with Butcher was pivotal.
Do as I say, not as I did will be Foran’s mantra and the Irishman said: “I was a raw lad from the inner city of Dublin and I’ve made my mistakes now.
“What I’d say to a lad who is like me when I was young is to learn from those mistakes.
“You can’t keep making mistakes and make sure you surround yourself with the right people. Terry Butcher took me under his wing at Motherwell and I screwed the head on.
“There’s probably lots of players out there like me with a lot more talent who haven’t been given a chance because of off-field issues they’ve had. Some just need an arm around the shoulder and to be advised right.
“I would have no problem taking a chance on someone like me. I’ve experienced a lot. I’ve been the first name on team sheets and then not been near the team.
“I’ve sat in stands when I could have been on the bench but clubs tried to drive me out. I’ve enjoyed promotion, suffered relegation, three cup final losses and administration.
“I’ve had it all and it can help me in managing players. I will let them know I’ve been there and done that.”
Foran insists he will not allow emotions to boil over and added: “The main thing is to remain balanced. Don’t get too high, don’t get too low. I’ve been like that as a player for the last few years.
“I don’t get carried away. You don’t know what’s around the corner. I go off quietly and enjoy my results but there will be no jumping around the place or gloating.”
