Source: Team_Talk
McLeish hailed after fan chat
ew Aston Villa manager Alex McLeish has been praised for "fronting up" to a section of the club's supporters at Bodymoor Heath on Wednesday.[LNB] McLeish has come under fire from some sections of fans unhappy at him being appointed because of his previous spell in charge of Birmingham.[LNB]But the Scot is determined to try and tackle the issue head-on and invited half a dozen prominent Villa followers to meet with him at the club's training ground.[LNB]McLeish outlined his plans and listened to any issues the group wanted to put to him in a meeting lasting more than an hour.[LNB]Jonathan Fear, editor of the Vital Villa fans' website, said: "Alex McLeish wanted to be open and honest and hear off people potentially against him.[LNB]"He wanted to see if he could get a chance to show what he can do and it was a good, positive, open meeting.[LNB]"Some people might look at this as a cynical PR exercise but Alex McLeish wanted to meet some of the fans and put his points across and listen to what people had to say.[LNB]"I don't think anyone walked out afterwards with long faces. He asked for the meeting and he is going to ask for more fans' forums.[LNB]"We all asked everything we felt was relevant and he answered it and wanted to be open and honest."[LNB]Fear believes McLeish, who resigned as Birmingham boss 11 days ago, deserves credit for facing up to supporters.[LNB]He said: "Alex could have hidden away and it would have been easier not to front up to things - as some previous managers have done.[LNB]"I was impressed with what he said at his press conference when confirmed as manager.[LNB]"People I've spoken to who know him said he is a straightforward, decent guy who deserves a chance."[LNB]Fear believes it is time for everyone to pull in the right direction at Villa.[LNB]He said: "The whole club needs it. Everyone has had their opinions and now everyone should support the club.[LNB]"Let everyone give the manager the chance to show what he can do. He deserves that."
