John Spencer? Hard working. Scotsman. Leader. Familiar profile

The speculation that John Spencer will come on board as the Timbers first MLS coach cites his passionate, hard-working style and notes his Scottish roots starting with Rangers and going out after a short run at Motherwell back around the Millennium.  Before his stint in Houston,  Spencer put in time with the Colorado Rapids as a player.  He had notable moments such as an Independence Day hat trick against DC United,  the first in Rapids history.   Today's newspaper profile asserts that he's noted for fierce loyalty to his players-- gesturing his disagreement to fans who were taunting Brian Ching.    
A Spenceresque profile might suggest that he'd be a great success here.   Back in the late Seventies,  John Bain came to the NASL Timbers from Bristol Rovers and never looked back.  A smart attacking midfielder,  Bain clocked forty-five goals and-fifty five assists in his outdoor career in Soccer City USA.   He played in 148 matches for our side and was a fan favorite.   When the outdoor Timbers suspended play in '82,  Bain ended up floating around the country for outdoor and then indoor teams.  However,  he returned to Portland as the player coach of the WSL Timbers which was launched on the foundations laid by FC Portland---a story for another day.  The revival didn't last long but Bain's stint in Portland continued for one more round with the indoor Portland Pride.  
My recollection of Bain, besides his origins,  is that he evidenced many of the qualities being highlighted for Spencer.   Bain was a smart player who was dynamic and hardworking on the field. He had a nose for goal.   He motivated his teammates.   I recall the crowd and the play on the field all ratcheting up a notch when Bain leapt out of the box and entered the fray.  He was intense and focussed about the game.   And he'd seen enough of it in enough settings that he wasn't fazed by the competition.   Bain never played for his national team,  but he had great poise.   Spencer's experience not only includes national side appearances abut a stint in Hong Kong.  To the extent that Spencer shares Bainlike qualities,  I think he's a strong pick.
One side note occurs to me.   Spencer's impatience with the negative behavior of the fans in Houston is likely to be in evidence here in Puddle City if the North Enders chew on members of the team.  While rare, it has happened.   And I doubt Spencer would take it lightly.   
Truth be told?  I like that.