Graham Cummins: Let’s not gag the few interesting characters football has left

Should we be punishing managers and players for speaking their minds? We are always looking for honesty from managers rather than the same old clichés

Waterford manager Marc Bircham speaks to the match officials following the SSE Airtricity League Premier Division match between Shamrock Rovers and Waterford at Tallaght Stadium. Picture: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

Should we be punishing managers and players for speaking their minds and giving what they believe is an honest assessment? We are always looking for honesty from managers rather than the same old clichés.

But what can we expect when nine times out of 10 managers and players are punished for sharing their true opinions. The way football is going; are we better just asking managers and players what they had for breakfast instead of talking about football — at least then we might get an honest answer.