This site backs Rix

Last updated : 23 February 2002 By
4-0 down at half time with little chance of getting anything from the match and the debate over whether Rix should stay has already begun. However it's not so much a debate - just a tirade of abuse. In this site's view, getting rid of Graham Rix would be the worst thing Milan Mandaric could do.

Sacking managers does not work, managers need to be given time. The most obvious example of this is Sir Alex Ferguson - on the brink of the sack a year into his reign but the board perservered, believing in his abilities and no one needs telling what happened next. Graham Rix, in his first managerial job, could and will be a very good manager. Once the red mist has died down in the next week or so, Pompey will be playing with the same inconsistent form but will most probably finish mid table - a good finish for the club considering our form over the last few years.

Rix has made inspired signings - the likes of Courtney Pitt, Barrett, Burchill and Crouch are top players. Add to this Zamperini, Biagini, KAWAGUCHI (yes him) Prosinecki and Biagini then you have the foundations of a very strong side. Rix has been unlucky with injuries and suspensions. However he has also made some mistakes.

Tactically, Rix never makes up his mind over what to play and chopping and changing players and formations doesn't work for a club of Pompey's standard. His stubborness is his downfall and his inability to use Harry Redknapp and sticking with Dave Beasant has been his downfall. The treatment of Yoshi has been sickening.

However his qualities far outweigh his weaknesses and the players like him. With the help of Redknapp or another coach will see an improvement in the teams performance. Next season will see a more streamlined squad with some of the rubbish cleared away. Think back to the champagne football of the start of the season and why would you want to get rid of Rix?

It's time for everyone to club together, not for Pompey to be dragged through the muddied waters of change once more.