Football: Board axed Lawrie ... but he still took charge of his side for one last time; SANCHEZ KEPT SACKING SECRET FROM PLAYERS.

Byline: GREIG THOMAS

LAWRIE SANCHEZ was sacked as Wycombe manager BEFORE their clash with Tranmere on Tuesday but then took charge of the team for one last game.

The Wycombe board told the Wimbledon legend his four and a half year reign was over no matter the result at Prenton Park.

And Sanchez kept the news of his dismissal secret from his players as he prepared them for a game one last time though they eventually lost 2-1.

None of Wycombe's directors travelled to Merseyside and Sanchez's assistant, Terry Gibson, said: ``Lawrie was told it was happening no matter what the result was.

``He told his staff before the game but none of the players knew anything about it. He did everything as normal.

``He's disappointed to go more than any of us but he's not angry. He's got some sorting out to do with the club.

``He'll take a quick break but I know for sure he wants to get back into management.''

Sanchez also broke the news to his good pal Gibson, who will now take charge as caretaker boss but wants the job full time.

Gibson said: ``Lawrie's my best mate, he brought me to the club and taking over from him is not ideal.

``For a first job Lawrie's done marvellous. It's got tougher each year but he's kept them up and had a great cup run.

``But he said there was no point in silly gestures from the rest of the staff. It happens in football and he wants us to carry on as normal and see if we can make a go of it.

``I still think we're more than capable of a mid-table finish.

``The players have got good performances in them so we can improve, get results and push up the table. The most important thing is we get some results and close the gap to the teams above us and then go from there.

``If I'm still in charge when we get results then it won't do my case any harm.

``Three things can happen, I can stay as caretaker and get the job, someone else comes in above me, or I get the shot.

``That's the last thing I want so I'll give it a crack and see if I can get us back up the table.''

Meanwhile, new Tottenham signing Mbulelo Mabizela has sensationally claimed he is being bullied.

The South Africa captain made his claim in an radio interview in his home country.

Mabizela said: ``There are certain players who want to make me uncomfortable.

``I will not name names but I want to raise this with management.''

The amazing claim shatters suggestions made by sacked boss Glenn Hoddle that there were no problems with team spirit in the Tottenham camp.

It also reveals the size of the task facing whoever takes over from the former England manager.

Mabizela was signed from Orlando Pirates after he impressed against Spurs on their summer tour of South Africa.

But since arriving at White Hart Lane he has found his opportunities limited.

However, he has vowed to fight for his place and against any dressing room intimidation.

He added: ``I know it's tough but I'm prepared to work hard and win a place. I'm aware that other players such as Quinton Fortune and Lucas Radebe initially struggled as well.

``However, this has affected me so badly that I'm never happy at training. It affects my performance negatively.

``Playing for my country will make me feel better.''

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SAN FOR THE ROAD: Lawrie Sanchez got a hug from striker Roy Essandoh and the boot from his job at Wycombe