Steve McClaren 'disappointed and shocked' after sacking by Derby
Tuesday 21 March 2017 13:20, UK
Steve McClaren says he was "disappointed and shocked" to be sacked by Derby County earlier this month.
The former Newcastle boss returned to Pride Park in October last year for his second spell in charge following the departure of Nigel Pearson and led the club into the play-off contention at Christmas time.
But he was relieved of his duties by owner Mel Morris after a subsequent run of one win in nine, with a 3-0 defeat at Brighton proving to be the final straw.
McClaren insists he bears no ill-will to Morris and was fully aware of the perils of the manager's job at Derby.
"I was disappointed and very shocked at the decision. I still am shocked. I did not see it coming," he told Premier League Daily:
"The only thing is that five months ago I knew I was going into a volatile environment. I was the sixth manager in less than 18 months since Mel Morris took charge.
"I knew that we needed results to stay in the job and I knew what other managers had experienced so I knew it was a tough job.
"I was there the first time for two seasons and in the first season we go to the play-off final and then for half a season we were top of the league and then fell away at the end. So I felt there was unfinished business there.
"I've great respect for the owner as a businessman and for what he is doing for the community in terms of charity; the millions that have gone to hospitals, helping people and the resources he is putting into Derby."
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