Memes are a popular source of entertainment for many people on social media these days, one that is rather prevalent is showing a picture of a successful pairing with the tagline ‘name a more iconic duo.’

In this case, that iconic duo is the double-act of Garry Monk and Pep Clotet - a seamless pairing; they are well suited to one another when it comes to a managerial structure.

Clotet is a long-term ally of Monk’s having been with him at three different clubs.

And having worked together so closely for so long, it’s time we here at FLW gave our chemistry rating and evaluate why they deserve the total they get.

We have decided to give them a rating of 83 per cent, and here’s why…

Currently, together at Birmingham, the pair teamed up at Swansea City and Leeds United.

While working with Monk in South Wales, the Swans enjoyed their highest-ever Premier League finish of eighth with a record points tally.

While at Leeds, the pair guided the club to seventh in the division and narrowly missing out on the play-offs before departing Elland Road.

To have a lasting partnership in football, it has to be based on trust and buying into the philosophy of the manager, and in this case, Monk wants to use.

During the duo’s stint at Swansea, they were the main two in 77 matches, winning 28 of those - that is a percentage of 36.4. 

At Leeds, a 47.2 per cent win rate, picking up three points 25 occasions in 53 matches.

And presently at Birmingham City, Monk has overseen ten wins from 29 with his trusted lieutenant next to him, equating to a 34.5 win percentage.

The pairing is formidable once they get going and can put their mark on a side.

At Leeds, that time was one season and is not enough to fully implant their philosophy.

Saving the Blues from relegation last year, there was a slight hangover, but now Monk and Clotet are working their magic, and the club is in mid-table, and just four points off a play-off place.

Good things take time, and in the managerial partnership of Monk and his assistant Clotet, there is a double act that compliments each other well and bounces off one another.

It is the ideal professional relationship to have, and it’s looking like it is paying dividends for continuity and patience at St. Andrews.

No pairing is without flaws, and when they arise, Monk and Clotet use them as opportunities to learn as to not make the same mistake twice.

They are a pair of young, progressive coaches who are adapting and building a reputation that is making them one of the better tandems in the EFL.