Jonathan Walters would make a 'big impression' leading the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) in England.
That’s according to Niall Quinn who has commended his fellow former Republic of Ireland striker for throwing his hat in the ring.
Walters, 37, revealed over the weekend that he has applied to succeed Graham Taylor as PFA chief executive.
After 40-years at the helm, Taylor is stepping down at the end of this season and candidates will be interviewed in March.
The closing date for applications is this Friday but Walters said: “I feel I’m the right man for the PFA because players can relate to me.
“I’ve played in every league. I’ve captained clubs, I’ve captained my country, I’ve been involved on the management committee of the PFA. I like leading.”
In his own playing days, Quinn twice led PFA strikes in the Manchester City and Sunderland dressing rooms.
Ex-Stoke City ace Walters revealed his intentions in a weekend interview and Quinn said today: “I read that article and it was almost like looking at him on the pitch.
“He was so into it. He obviously really wants this; he feels it's the route he wants to take after football.
“It's almost noble of him. He would have made a lot of money but he's not just sitting back, looking forward to the next holiday or looking at all his investments.
“That he's put the effort in to go this far I think is great and good luck to him.”
Quinn continued: “There's a seismic change taking place with the departure of the CEO and it's a crossroads for the PFA.
“The game has changed. People look at football now and just think of the guys at the top end and how much money is in the game.
“But there are so many players hitting hard times, for whatever reason, all the way down the ladder.
“Jonathan knows that because he's been through it all, he's been on that journey.
“In a new healthier, modern environment Jonathan has a chance of making a big impression here.
“He's very focused on the players – naturally it’s a players’ association – but he’s very focused on visiting dressing rooms, urging people to understand the PFA a bit more.
“He wants to make it an important organisation and I think that's bang on.”
But Walters - capped 54 times for Ireland - won’t be the only candidate as outgoing chairman Ben Purkiss is also applying for the post, along with unidentified others.
Niall Quinn - Bootroom to Boardroom airs on Virgin Media Two, this Wednesday 17th February at 10.15pm. The Champions League also returns to Virgin Media Television tomorrow, with all games live on Virgin Media Sport
