MOST would-be managers take their inspiration from the game’s greats, or their ups and downs as a player in various dressing rooms. But Mark Creighton will take his.. from a tattoo parlour!
The 32-year-old retired from the game last month after injuries finally took their toll on the body of the former Wrexham, Kidderminster Harriers and Oxford United centre-back.
He is now attempting to make his way as a manager – and he’s inking that his business brain will come in rather handy.
Creighton opened up his Raw Ink Studio in Coedpoeth, north Wales, a year-and-a-half ago – and the current waiting list is three months.
And the Beast said: “I’m so proud of how well the business has gone. It’s so unbelievably busy – but I knew it would work as I knew I had the right people in place.
“Not that the workload has stopped me focusing on getting my foot on the managerial ladder. It’s something I’m passionate about and I honestly believe I will make a success of it.
“It may sound strange this, but I really believe football is just like business. You manage and man manage people, you make big decisions and you put the hours in to get success. It’s very similar – just no needles!
“I’m looking for a chance. I accept I’ll probably have to go in as an assistant somewhere at first but I can’t wait to get an opportunity at a club. I’ll be taking my UEFA B licence in June, but I really think I already have a lot to offer.”