DURING the current crop of letters about York City's latest crisis at least two letters have criticised former manager Bobby Saxton.

He followed Denis Smith into the manager's job, a hard act to follow, but a nightmare to manage. I'm not 100 per cent sure, but weren't only three or four players in contract? The club had as much foundation as a scout tent. He had no chance.

Saxton was well-respected in football with Peter Reid, and others, seeking help and advice.

The biggest City mistake was letting head of youth development, Ricky Sbragia go so easily. He knew the club inside out, brought on many of the juniors, later sold to keep the club afloat.

Saxton is now assistant manager at Sunderland, with Ricky, second team coach. Mackem's gain, Minstermen's loss.

Possibly Paul Stancliffe should have been appointed instead of Terry Dolan. He has a similar track record to Ricky Sbragia.

Paul Grant,

Ryecroft Avenue,

Woodthorpe,

York.