Mixed reaction as board put faith in Hoddle

Still Manager
By Scott Cooper
May 3 2006

WOLVES fans have reacted with mixed views following the news that Glenn Hoddle will definitely stay on as Wolves Manager next season. Jez Moxey ended speculation by confirming Hoddle has the backing of the board.

A statement released by Chief Executive Jez Moxey early today confirmed that boss Glenn Hoddle will remain in charge of the club, despite labelling the most recent season as a "complete disaster".

Sections of the fans had chanted for Hoddle to be sacked during the last few games of the season but Moxey confirmed on the club's official website that the decision to keep the former England Manager on was made during a board meeting on Tuesday.

"It's no secret that the Board and Glenn are disappointed with the team's failure to secure automatic promotion or a play-off spot, especially as everyone was well aware of the likely financial restraints for next season if we didn't achieve promotion," Moxey said.

  "That said, Glenn is a proven manager and the board feels confident that he has the skills needed to re-build the squad over the coming season. During the meeting, we clearly articulated that the loss of the Premiership parachute payment means that there will be a reduced budget for next season. Glenn accepts this and is now looking at how best to shape his squad with the money available."

Media speculation had suggested that Hoddle could be sacked for failing to achieve the minimum target of a play off spot and the news of the boards backing of Hoddle was met with a mixed reception by the fans.

"As long as Hoddle uses simpler, effective tactics, and buys players that are hungry to succeed, Hoddle can do well for Wolves. He needs to except mistakes were made though and change them for next season." said one user on our message board.

"Given the current number of managerial vacancies (Charlton, Newcastle, etc.) and potential managerial vacancies (Boro', Blues, Villa, WBA, Sunderland) at clubs whose current status - and spending power - far exceeds ours, I'd say this is the right decision. For now." Said another.

However not all comments were positive. One user blasted "Hoddle has stated quite plainly that he refuses to adapt his playing style to suit the division and the fact that he got Swindon up on no money was eons ago in football terms so I can't see why 'continuity' is needed - continuity of mediocrity."

Another fan added "Unless Charlton step in its all set up for a classic Wolves November sacking and playing catch up next season. Unless we start with a big fixture there will be an opening fixture attendance of less than 20,000 for the first time in many years."

However despite the mixed reaction most fans admitted they would support Hoddle whilst he was in charge of the club and would continue to support the club next season.