Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has criticised Tottenham’s decision to sack Jose Mourinho.
Mourinho has relieved of his duties this morning after 17 months in charge amid a disappointing run of form that has left Spurs looking up at the top six.
The decision was made following Spurs‘ 2-2 draw with Everton on Friday, a result that has left Tottenham five points off the top four, and potentially more if others win their games in hand.
The reason behind the decision to sack Mourinho may be one many agree with given the disappointing season Spurs have had, but the timing has drawn criticism.
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Tottenham are in Carabao Cup final action this weekend against Manchester City – something Mourinho helped the club achieve – and that’s why former Manchester United striker and now Derby County manager Rooney is baffled by the decision.
“I think it’s crazy doing it before a cup final. It’s strange timing, anyway,” he said. “I’m sure they could have waited until after if that was the direction they wanted to go in.
“Jose is a world-class manager and one of the best the game has seen, and unfortunately, his time has come to an end at Tottenham, but I’m sure he will bounce back and I think there will be a lot of teams trying to bring him in.”
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Rooney was also asked how he thinks the Spurs players will react to the decision, and he replied: “It depends on the players. I’ve been there myself. Some players will get encouragement and some players will be upset.
“It depends on the players individually. The one thing that happens a lot of time is that you get a good reaction when a manager is sacked.”