Roberto Di Matteo(credit:
AtilaTheHun)
Former West Brom manager Roberto Di Matteo admits he we was “extremely surprised and disappointed” after being sacked at the weekend.
Di Matteo was relieved of his duties following the 3-0 defeat to Manchester City, their 13th loss in 18 games, with the result leaving the Baggies just two points above the relegation zone.
And the Italian, who guided Albion to the top flight last season, said in a statement: “I was extremely surprised and disappointed to be relieved of my duties today.
“Winning promotion to the Barclays Premier League with West Brom last season was without doubt one of the highlights of my career and certainly my managerial career.
“Playing in this league is tough and we have had to compete against some fantastic sides but we have shown that we can compete with the best.
“Apart from the first week of the season, the club has not been in the bottom three and has an important run of home fixtures coming up.
“I am disappointed that I don't now have the chance to lead the team through this crucial period and keep them in the league.
“I wish the players well over the coming weeks and I thank them for the hard work they have put in and the great attitude they have shown.
“I would like to thank the staff at the club and of course the most loyal and fantastic fans, with whom I had a great relationship during my time at the club.”
The League Manager’s Association have condemned the decision to axe Di Matteo, with chief executive officer Richard Bevan believing the former Chelsea star is the latest victim of the “hire and fire” mentality in the game.