soapster
Striker
I know we discussed this the other day mate - and fwiw, I totally agree PDC crossed line - but what happened in his last few days/weeks as manager was a desperate attempt to force his authority on his players.
I'm pretty sure we have been told the same story about the team meeting, but I was also told that he was fighting a losing battle with an element of the squad and it wasn't a comfortable situation for anyone.
Depending on who you believe, Poyet had a similar problem later in the same season and in the end, Catts took it upon himself to bring the players together.
I don't buy this rotten core crap, but I do think there was a lack of professionalism at the time.
I think you are right.
I think where he went wrong was to try and force his authority. He should have done things to encourage the players to do it his way.
I think your right about the rotten core thing. I don't know enough about what went on, but I am now beginning to look at the clubs leadership and direction, from Short, Byrne, DOF downwards. Too many managers have gone through and failed / just given up.
The aj thing was a big blow to the players as well and knocked the stuffing out of them as it hit them personally as well as professionally. perhaps after that it was either we are all together or we are apart.
we need to get rid of the past and look towards the future