EDIN Rahic believes City can find the successful formula by implementing a continental system with a Yorkshire flavour under new boss Michael Collins.

The move towards a European-style head coach is something Rahic and co-owner Stefan Rupp have been looking to introduce since they bought the club two years ago.

City’s new set-up, with Collins backed up by assistants Martin Drury and Greg Abbott, mirrors the way Bundesliga clubs operate.

But Rahic feels that local pride can provide an extra edge to his coaching team, with Collins hailing from Halifax and Drury from Huddersfield.

The City chairman said: “It’s massive because they are Yorkshire lads. They know the club and they are proud to be here.

“They know the circumstances, unlike a German coach who doesn’t speak English.

“They know the players and that’s a massive benefit.”

At 32, Collins has become the youngest boss in the top four divisions. Both him and Drury were born in April 1986 – with former Park Avenue chief Drury just three weeks older.

Abbott’s vast experience in the game will add the senior coaching know-how they lack. But Rahic, like Collins, insists age is just a number.

And the Valley Parade joint-owner has cited two of the most successful clubs in his native Germany as proof that a young leader at the helm can pay off.

Rahic added: “Schalke finished second with a coach (Domenico Tedesco) who is 32. Hoffenheim with third and (Julian) Nagelsmann started there at 28.

“Both are in the Champions’ League now.

“So, Michael is the youngest head coach in the Football League?

“It’s not about the age, but the knowledge about football.

“The circumstances are so important, if we trust each other and have the same understanding. Bring it all together and get this bond and then I think we have a massive chance.”

With the fixtures for next season out tomorrow, City have one more week before they return to training.

By tying down the coaching team to three-year deals, Rahic insists the club are showing their faith in the new format.

“You can be experienced or not, German, English or Dutch, but can be just as successful from my point of view if you have the chance,” he said.

“I give them the freedom. They will be protected 100 per cent and we’re committed in what we are doing.

“There is a trust in the relationship where we can speak about everything. This is a great chance to be successful.

“It’s always about circumstances and the relationship between people in the club.

“You can be the best coach but you have no chance because of not bonding or team spirit on or off the pitch.

“We really have to build up once more from what we have seen in 2018 and need this team bonding.

“Shrewsbury and Huddersfield are the best examples. It’s proven.

“They may not have the best players but a proper strategy, good team spirit and the right environment and it works.”