Gibson - Bizarre To Say The Least!

Last updated : 25 October 2009 By Boro Mad

His problem seems to be the manner of Gareth Southgate's dismissal, which McNally claims "leaves a sour taste in the mouth",

McNally: "Down the years I have been extravagant in my praise of Boro's chairman and benefactor Steve Gibson.

"But his handling of the Southgate sacking lacked the class and dignity that has marked so much of the Boro owner's stewardship.

"The fans had turned against Southgate in large numbers and, despite being just one point behind the leaders, I would defend his decision to decide it was time to change managers even if the timing was perplexing.

"Surely Gibson could have called his manager up to the boardroom immediately after the Derby game and conveyed his decision without delaying and leaving his manager to engage in such a futile and cruel exercise (at the press conference)."

It was bizarre, I have to admit.

Gibson had made up his mind and Southgate had to go. But that press conference was amazing! Southgate seemed to have no idea what was going to happen.