Roger Johnson 'axed for poor display'

Published Nov 7, 2016

Last updated Apr 10, 2012

Wolves boss Terry Connor today insisted Roger Johnson was axed for footballing reasons at Stoke.

Johnson was involved in an angry head-to-head exchange with Wayne Hennessey in the previous 3-2 defeat against Bolton and also was at fault for two goals.

The former skipper, whose appointment as captain caused tension in the dressing room, paid the price by losing his place on Saturday.

But Connor said his decision to drop the £4.5m defender was about his performances rather than his relationships with other players.

"It wasn't about last week (spat with Wayne Hennessey)," said Connor.

"It was more about three goals that went in. I made that decision on a football basis."

Connor was happy to hand the captaincy back to Karl Henry.

"Karl's been at the club for a number of years and he's been captain so I gave him the job," said the boss.

"It was a footballing decision and he was pleased to be asked to do it again."

Meanwhile, Connor insisted the manager's job wasn't a "poisoned chalice".

"It's a fantastic challenge and one I relished. My job is to look after the club until May 13, which I'm very happy and very proud to do," he said.

"I've thoroughly enjoyed my time as manager and will continue to do so."

But he admitted he could be gone at the end of the season.

"I've been in football long enough to know managers like to bring in people they've worked with and bring in their own coaches, so I'm not under any illusions," he said.