BASINGSTOKE Town club captain Jason Bristow has broken the players' silence over Ernie Howe's shock departure to blast his under-performing team-mates for costing their ex-manager his job.

The 25-year-old central defender (pictured) agrees that the players let Howe down with their recent poor run of form - six defeats in seven league games - and slide towards the Nationwide South relegation zone.

And he told The Gazette: "It is down to us players and we have lost him his job. It is not acceptable.

"Players cannot just turn up to games when they feel like it - but there are too many who have, and too many who just don't care enough when we lose.

"They have to take a long, hard look at themselves and hold their hands up. It has been embarrassing - but they have got a second chance and Ernie hasn't."

He added: "I just hope Ernie realises there are a few of us that gave our all for him.

"I have had many years with him and greatly respect him as a person and manager. It shouldn't have ended like this."

Despite only being signed in November from Carshalton by Howe, goalkeeper Stuart Searle agreed with Bristow's verdict and reiterated Bristow's belief that "the players have to accept responsibility".

He added: "We have not been playing as a team and there have been too many individuals with their own agendas who play for themselves, once they get on the pitch."

David Ray and Neville Stamp also expressed their shock and sadness at Howe's departure, as well as agreeing with Bristow's damning assessment.

"I've played for Ernie for five years, so it is going to be strange not having him around," said Ray. "He's been very good to me."

Stamp added: "I am sad Ernie and Pete have gone in this way.

"A few years ago, when my brother Nick drowned, they persuaded me to carry on playing when I was ready to quit. That's the kind of loyal support and help they gave their players."

First published: Thursday, March 30, 2006