LMA condemn 'unacceptable' abuse directed at Blackburn boss Steve Kean

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Blackburn manager Steve Kean has received the full backing of the League Managers' Association, who have released a strongly-worded statement condemning the unprecedented attacks on the Scot from his own fans at Ewood Park last night.

A large section of the Rovers support have been agitating against Kean for some time, with even the local newspaper calling for his head on Monday.

The ill-feeling spilled over completely once Mark Davies had scored Bolton's opener in last night's crunch Barclays Premier League encounter.

It continued throughout what turned into a 2-1 defeat and long after the final whistle as hundreds attended a demonstration outside the stadium calling for immediate action.

The club's controversial Indian owners, Venky's, were still digesting the latest downturn in a sorry season this afternoon.

Their absence from Ewood Park last night was noted with some alarm and Kean himself rejected talk of a board meeting, insisting he would be "100% shocked" if he was sacked.

The odds remain on him being ousted prior to the Boxing Day trip to Liverpool, which would at least end the misery he has been suffering.

Former England striker Michael Owen was among those to express their disgust at the Rovers fans during last night's game.

And this afternoon, the LMA have stepped in, calling it "unacceptable" and "well beyond the mark".

"When results continue to be bad on the field fans who give up their hard-earned money to support their club have a right to voice their opinion," said the LMA.

"However, the aggression and abuse levelled at Steve over recent weeks has stepped well beyond the mark and is as unacceptable in football as it would be in any other profession.

"It is to Steve's significant credit that he has shouldered this continued onslaught with dignity and professionalism and has continued to work with his players to try and improve results on the pitch."

Former Rovers striker Kevin Gallacher is among those who believe the visual absence of a figurehead at Blackburn since the departure of former chief executive John Williams has contributed to the ire being directed at Kean.

And it seems the LMA share those sentiments.

"It is very sad to witness the continued demonstrations by Rovers fans towards their manager," said the organisation.

"Blackburn Rovers is one of the country's oldest clubs. It was a founding member of the Football League and is rightly proud of its long-standing history and tradition.

"It has been and continues to be a central part of a close-knit Lancastrian community.

"However, owners of clubs such as Blackburn Rovers rely on the support and the relationships they build with their fans and their local community.

"As new owners, the Venky's should build relationships, develop trust with their fans and communicate their vision on a regular basis in an open and visible way."

If the situation wasn't so serious, there would almost be a comic element to Kean's refusal to accept his diminishing status in the aftermath of last night's defeat.

He spoke of continuing to work towards making purchases as soon as the transfer window opened, at the same time as rejecting claims Michel Salgado was not being considered due to the danger of triggering a clause in his present contract that would automatically bring him an additional one.

There is no doubt Kean is correct in his assertions that injuries are having a devastating effort.

Scott Dann's absence for six weeks with a ruptured testicle suffered during the weekend defeat to West Brom is both painful and bizarre and Kean can hardly be held responsible for the irregular heart condition that has forced Gael Givet to have a "procedure" that will keep him out for a fortnight.

"It would be silly not to be concerned about where we are but the belief is there that I can lead this team away from trouble without a doubt," he said.

"I am sure the owners will give me time. I am convinced they will.

"They understand the injury crisis we have, all in the one position. I can't do any surgery on them.

"I don't make excuses. It is a fact.

"The fans are frustrated because they want to see us getting clean sheets.

"I can see why they are not happy when we concede so early in a derby game. None of us are happy."

PA