Royle Slams Blues Supporters

Last updated : 09 February 2004 By Site Editor

Speaking of the resultthe former Everton manager said: "We were well beaten, but I was disappointed with our fans' reaction to some of our players at times. Whatever you say about the players they are an honest bunch.

"I know supporters want to cheer us and they want us to compete for a Premiership place. I say to them that we are still chasing a top two place and still have a good chance.

"We suffered a near-death experience a few months ago. We are on the way back to recovery, but it will be a slow process and unlike Wigan there will be no money to spend for some while yet.

"I appreciate our fans will find it hard as the club was playing in Europe last season and in the Premiership just before then. But this is the time to get behind the team. We must forget the past and look to the future - but it may take time."