Players’ first thoughts are about how it will affect them and it was an eye-opener to see how split a squad can be by a sacking People are selfish, there is no getting away from it. Whether you are a footballer or working in an office, employees are always thinking about how any decision will affect their professional lives. Being creatures of habit, humans do not like change and want consistency. When change is coming, people go into self-mode and can become selfish. When a manager is under pressure – as has been the case with Steve Bruce at Newcastle – that is passed down to the players, especially when tens of thousands of people make it known to you every fortnight. The anxiety travels around the dressing room and training ground, making you feel the added burden. Individuals will deal with it differently, because every player has something to win or lose from a manager being replaced. Continue reading...