BOLTON comic Stu Francis was grim-faced yesterday after hearing of Colin Todd's resignation and Per Frandsen's departure.

The life-long Trotters supporter is confident that Todd was still the man who could pull the team's fortunes around, despite an early season slump in form.

And the popular entertainer slammed the club's decision to sell midfield star Per Frandsen to rivals Blackburn Rovers in a deal worth a total of £2.25 million.

Stu, who lives in Smithills and holds two season tickets for himself and his wife, said: "I'm shocked that Toddy's gone.

"Alright, we've had a couple of bad runs, but I remember him taking us up into the Premiership. I've not got a short memory, he's done a lot for the club.

"You've got to consider that he's not had the money to throw at players and despite that the team's still looking quite sound. I thought he was doing the right job.

"I don't blame him for going though. He has said in the past that if Per Frandsen was sold he would be in a difficult position. He's a man of his word and he's stuck to his word."

The BEN broke news of the Reebok drama to Stu, who has recently been fronting a morning slot on local radio, as early editions carrying the exclusive story hit the news stands.

And Per Frandsen's departure to Ewood Park has left the TV star dumbfounded.

He added: "It seems to be a case of the green-eyed monster syndrome where they wanted the money. They've now got to ask themselves how they can replace someone with Frandsen's skills for just £2.25 million.

"I certainly think he's been under sold. Anybody who watches football knows that's the case. It's absolutely ludicrous that he's gone because if anybody had presence on the field it was him. That was where the majority of our goals came from."

And now Stu says the players and club need to call on the services of a footballing elder statesman as their new manager to steady the Wanderers' season.

He told the BEN that someone with a "calming" influence would help settle the team, suggesting a manager with qualities like Bournemouth's Mel Machin would be ideal.

Stu added: "I'm sorry Toddy has gone, I really am. I was a Toddy fan but I don't blame him for his decision."

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