Steve Kean, the manager of Blackburn Rovers, has claimed he would not feel safe meeting with fans of the club following treatment he described as "vicious" at Tuesday night's defeat to Bolton.
A situation that has been escalating throughout the season reached its nadir at Ewood Park as Blackburn dropped to the bottom of the Barclays Premier League. Kean has been a lightning rod for fans' frustration, not just with his own performance but also the role of Indian owners Venky's, and a small group took their protests to the training ground yesterday.
Asked if he would consider meeting supporters, the Scot said: "I have to take direction from other people concerning health and safety. At the game the other night it was pretty vicious, so it would have to be in an environment where first and foremost it was safe."
Fans have complained about a perceived lack of communication from the club, but Kean insisted plans are in place to allow their grievances to be heard.
He said: "I spoke with the deputy chief executive and I think there was a plan where the directors were going to meet with the fans. I don't know where that's at.
"I said I would be available. I've already met with the fans in my office and did a full, open podcast. I answered every single question they asked me. I'm always very open and honest."
It does not get any easier for Kean with a match at Anfield against Liverpool on Boxing Day, followed by Manchester United at Old Trafford.
The trip to Liverpool comes in the aftermath of Luis Suarez's eight-match ban and Kenny Dalglish, the manager, has dismissed suggestions that the issues surrounding the Uruguayan's suspension will affect his team.
His squad displayed unanimous support for their team-mate, suspended for racially abusing Patrice Evra of Manchester United, and that support has drawn fresh criticism.
However, when asked whether he was worried about the issue influencing the work of his players Dalglish replied: "I don't think so."
The Scot feels the squad's stance had a positive effect on Suarez, whose ban will not begin until after an appeal is heard, or 14 days after receipt of written confirmation of the punishment, expected to reach Anfield after Christmas.
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