Southampton executive chairman Nicola Cortese believes the timing of Nigel Adkins' sacking was "perfect".
------------------------------------------------------------
Predict result and win big with Soccer6
------------------------------------------------------------
Adkins was controversially relieved of his duties more than a week ago, despite coming off a 2-2 draw at Chelsea and taking the south-coast club to two consecutive promotions.
The decision was derided even more, when the Saints immediately announced Mauricio Pochettino as his replacement, but Cortese has defended the decision to part ways with their manager.
"Nigel and I always had a very good relationship to the last second. It was very tough, not just for him but for me," he told Sky Sports. "To me, there's one time, which is right, especially if you are 100% convinced it is the right thing. Ultimately for the team it was the right thing, it was perfect timing.
"It sounds harsh but it was for the benefit of the progress we want to achieve over the next couple of months and years. It's not only for today but for tomorrow."
The Italian was subject to a scathing attack from Southampton legend Matt Le Tissier, who accused Cortese of having an ego problem. But the 44-year-old banker insists everything he does is for the good of the club.
"Maybe I need to sacrifice my popularity to get the right decision. If that's the case, I'm happy," he added. "I am a perfectionist. Some people say that's not good, but it helps the football club to keep attention to detail and not stand still.
"I don't even know him, he's never met me. Anyone in the past who is associated with the club is stirring negativity towards me should probably ask if it's beneficial for the club," Cortese said about Le Tissier, who spent his entire career with the Saints.
"I would not allow myself to judge someone I have never met."
Post A Comment!
Be the first to post a comment on this story