IT would be a mistake to allow frustrations over Oxford United’s problems under Sumrith ‘Tiger’ Thanakarnjanasuth to boil over, according to head coach Karl Robinson.
The Thai businessman completed his takeover a year ago today.
But there is growing disillusionment among supporters, alarmed at a succession of financial issues.
United’s continued struggles in the relegation zone have amplified the anger.
Few at the club have got to know Tiger better than Robinson.
The U’s boss acknowledges mistakes have been made, but believes the raw ingredients are there to turn the club around.
He said: “I think we’ll all be open and honest and say we’re all learning new ways of working.
“There are teething problems, 100 per cent, I think he’s admitted that himself.
Also read: Timeline from Tiger's year at Oxford United
“We sense frustration, but be patient.
“Don’t fall into a trap where we turn on people who do have the financial clout to be successful one day.
“That’s important to understand, we certainly have that. But Rome wasn’t built in a day.”
The cynic would point out it is not surprising Robinson would give a glowing reference.
Having overseen a campaign where the U’s have won just seven of their 33 games in Sky Bet League One, many owners would have lost patience with the manager.
But Robinson says the owner is popular throughout the club.
“Everybody in this building likes Tiger,” he said.
“When he comes in he’s infectious, but we have to get it right.
“I think Tiger will tell you it’s been a difficult 12 months.
“I think he would also tell you that the pictures that were painted were not what he thought – through no fault of anybody.
“Unforeseen circumstances have played a big role in extra money that’s come out of our football club.
Also read: Chaotic 12 months leaves Oxford United needing to repair damage
“These are things that chairmen live and die by with the decisions they make.
“I think a lot of people would have come in and with the unforeseen things they would have walked away.
“But he’s not, he takes the criticism and more importantly respects it. We don’t turn our back on it.
“I can assure you the work he’s putting in at the moment is phenomenal.
“It’s amazing, we’re talking about new grounds, building stadiums, new land opportunities and changing the mentality.
“I don’t need to pay lip service, but he’s a good man.”
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