Soccer: Barrett blasts Royle sacking

Kevin Keegan and George Graham are heading a supporters poll to replace Joe Royle at Maine Road, after the former midfielder was dismissed by Manchester City yesterday after 3½ years in charge.

While the search begins to find his successor, former City defender Earl Barrett believes Royle will return to the game.

Barrett, who played under Royle in the Premiership with Oldham, said: "Clubs have got to trust their managers a bit more.

"You have to give them time to make mistakes and learn from them. Manchester United could have got rid of Alex Ferguson early on but decided to persevere and they've reaped the benefit.

"I am shocked at what has happened to Joe. I know he will be very disappointed at the moment but I expect him to bounce back.

"Perhaps the chairman thought what he is doing is for the benefit of the club.

"But changing managers as often as City do doesn't make economic sense, apart from anything else."