Darrell Clarke believes Ben Garner should be given “plenty of time to turn things around” at Bristol Rovers.
The former Gas boss, who won back-to-back promotions in 2015 and 2016, was in the opposition dugout at the Mem on Tuesday as his Walsall side claimed a bonus point on penalties after a 2-2 draw in the EFL Trophy.
After the game, Clarke had a long chat with Garner – who has just two wins in charge of the Gas since taking over in December – and Rovers directors Martyn Starnes and Tom Gorringe.
And Clarke, who left the Pirates in 2018, believes his time in charge of the club is evidence managers should be given patience.
“He has (had a tough start), but I’m in favour of managers having plenty of time to turn things around,” Clarke told Bristol Live. “
“You’ve only got to look at me as a manager at Rovers. I didn’t get off to a great start, did I? It wasn’t my team but you’re judged on results and Ben knows that.
“But when you’re trying to change it and go younger, having that sort of development there’s going to be bumps in the road along the way and I’m sure he will keep working hard to get it right.”
Rovers are a much-changed club to the one Clarke left, with president Wael Al-Qadi taking control of the club following a change in ownership structure.
A new training ground will open imminently, too, and Clarke believes the club are in a much better position.
“It seems to hopefully coming together nicely under one umbrella with Wael now solely in charge,” he said.
“He’s a very passionate guy about the football club and there were never any problems with any of the powers that be.
“I know there was a lot said when I left the place, but I’ve still got a good relationship and Wael text me last week.”
Sod’s law meant that Clarke’s return to the Mem was in an empty stadium with the game played behind closed doors.
The club clearly still means a lot to the 42-year-old.
“I was looking forward to thanking the fans for the tremendous support I got while I was manager,” he added.
“It’s always difficult when you leave a club because you don’t get to see anybody and you’re out the door.
“But the support I had here as manager, even though there were some highs and lows through that, was tremendous.
“It’s the only time I’ve wanted Bristol Rovers to lose. It’s a special place to me and I know that sounds a bit corny. I wanted them to get beat tonight but every other game I want them to win.
“Hopefully they can have a good season when the real stuff starts on Saturday.”
