Blackburn´s Ince accepts fans´ frustration

Blackburn Rovers manager Paul Ince has admitted the club's fans have every right to voice criticism over the club's misfortunes, following a sixth successive Premier League defeat on Saturday.

A 3-0 loss to Wigan, managed by former Manchester United team-mate Steve Bruce, left Blackburn second from bottom of the table and in danger of being relegated for the second time in their Premier League history.

During the match Ince was a target for small sections of disgruntled fans and on Sunday reports suggested the former United midfielder would not make it in his post past the holiday period.

Ince, who joined the top tier of English football from MK Dons four months ago, has only won three games in his spell in charge.

He has called on his players to stop the rot, but admits that so far the team has let the fans down.

“There is no point in the players feeling sorry for themselves. They have just go to keep believing,” he said.

“I'm very disappointed with the players. We are hurting at this moment in time.”

He added: “We let our fans down.

“Obviously they are going to voice their frustration as anyone would – and rightly so because we let them down. They are going to voice their opinion.”

Blackburn play Stoke next week, a match whose result could determine whether Ince's five-month reign continues or ends.

Wigan manager Bruce meanwhile believes Ince should be given more time by the club.

Bruce said: “He has played at the highest level and you don't play for Inter Milan, Liverpool and Man United without having a bit of bottle and Incey has plenty of that.

“He will come out fighting and snarling and determined to turn it around.

“We have all been there. If he does turn it round, which I'm sure he will, it will make him a better manager.”