Former Leyton Orient owner Barry Hearn reflects on John Sitton and the famous documentary.
In 1995, sports promoter Barry Hearn purchased the struggling football club Leyton Orient for a nominal fee. The club was drowning in massive financial debt at the bottom of the third tier of English football.
During this period, Channel 4 cameras documented the chaotic behind-the-scenes reality in the television production titled Club For A Fiver. The documentary heavily featured manager John Sitton and his fierce coaching methods.
The combustible manager delivered an infamous dressing-room rant that remains etched in football history, according to information published by FF2 Futebol.
Buying Leyton Orient For £2.43
When Barry Hearn acquired Leyton Orient from former chairman Tony Wood, he famously paid just £2.43 for the club. However, he also had to take on two million pounds worth of existing debt.
Despite the financial risks involved, Barry Hearn wanted to bring Premier League football to the London stadium within five years. As an experienced promoter, he understood the value of generating major headlines.
Inside The Famous John Sitton Rant
The defining moment of the Channel 4 documentary occurred when John Sitton addressed his squad during a match against Blackpool. Trailing 1-0 at half-time, the manager publicly sacked defender Terry Howard.
John Sitton also offered to physically fight multiple players inside the dressing room. He famously told them to bring their dinner because they would need it after he finished with them.
Why Barry Hearn Loved The Tirade
Although viewers and football fans were deeply shocked by the aggressive language, Barry Hearn found humor in the situation. He admitted that he still quotes the famous dinner line frequently today.
Despite enjoying the theatrical aspect of the rant, Barry Hearn noted that allowing television cameras inside the dressing room was a major mistake. He ultimately concluded that the manager crossed the line.
The Departure Of John Sitton
Barry Hearn eventually decided to part ways with John Sitton and assistant manager Chris Turner. The strict owner witnessed an unacceptable tackle on a youth player during training.
Because of his harsh depiction in the television documentary, John Sitton struggled to find another football job. He ultimately left the sport entirely to work as a black cab driver.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much did Barry Hearn pay for Leyton Orient?
Barry Hearn bought Leyton Orient for just £2.43 in 1995, while also taking on two million pounds in club debt.
What did John Sitton say in his famous rant?
John Sitton sacked defender Terry Howard at half-time and invited players to fight him, telling them to bring their dinner because they would need it.
Why did Barry Hearn eventually sack John Sitton?
Barry Hearn let John Sitton go after witnessing him aggressively tackle a 16-year-old player during a training session.
