DEJECTED Pete Russell admits he was “shocked” to be given the boot by Swindon Wildcats, but insists he bears no grudges.

The Scot, who had guided his team to third place in the EPL this season, learned his fate in a meeting with general manager Steve Nell on Tuesday. Russell admitted he had not been enjoying the job for several weeks, but was hoping to hold out until Christmas and come back fully recharged.

He said: “I didn’t expect it to happen this week. Not many coaches get sacked when you have just beaten two of the best teams in the league. I’m gutted because I would have loved the chance to finish what I started here.

“I want to publicly thank Steve Nell and Mark Thompson though for giving me the opportunity to work in Swindon.

“I don’t want any of the fans to hold anything against Steve.

“He made a very tough decision and I know he was sad to have to make it, but he did what he felt was best for the club.”