Sacked Bristol City manager Nigel Pearson has issued an emotional farewell message to players, supporters and all at the Ashton Gate club, telling them he'll see them 'on the Mendips, on the Levels'.
Pearson was "relieved of his duties" by Bristol City on Sunday, following five defeats in seven league games, at the end of a two-and-a-half year stint at Ashton Gate.
Now, he has thanked fans and colleagues for their support during his tenure. Addressing the 'Bristol City family', he wrote on X (formerly Twitter): "I would like to thank you, the fans, for your patience during a difficult period when COVID and changes have tested your resolve. I have been made so welcome in Bristol and the beautiful county of North Somerset, a place I simply adore..."
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"To my dear friends and colleagues at the training ground, and stadium on matchdays; thanks for your support, professionalism and humour, especially during difficult times... I’ve always hated workplaces where there are pecking orders, so to be with so many people who just get how important fun and support is, to obtaining meaningful output, has been simply brilliant. Sorry I’ll never make a Christmas do.
"To the players, thank you for the journey. Some have been present throughout, some for a short time, some no longer at the club, but all have played their roles. To the senior players; you are why many of the emerging stars will be so special. Always remember this..." he said.
And, in a nod to his new-found love of the countryside of the Mendips and Somerset, where he set up home and even bought a small area of woodland, he added: "Thank you, I will see you in the Mendips, on the levels, and occasionally in a pub or two. My family and I have been so touched by your support. Take care, and good luck. Cheers, Nige. X"
There has been an almost universal reaction against Pearson's sacking from Bristol City fans, with many saying they wanted him to continue in the post, despite recent results. Pearson's squad has been ravaged by injury with 12 first-team regulars out for the most recent loss at Cardiff City - with Pearson having to hand debuts to a 17-year-old and an 18-year-old from the club's youth team in the past week just to be able to field a side.
What happens next remains to be seen, but Bristol City are understood to have a short list of potential replacements and want to act quickly to appoint a new manager.
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