Queens Park Rangers manager Harry Redknapp believes that Malky Mackay deserves his second chance at Wigan Athletic following the recent text scandal.
The Scotsman was appointed as the Latics' new boss yesterday following the dismissal of Uwe Rosler last week.
The move was slammed by anti-discrimination organisation Kick It Out due to the ongoing Football Association investigation looking into text messages sent by Mackay, which allegedly contained racist, homophobic and sexist comments.
"I am sure his life has been hell for the last few months," Redknapp told reporters. "He has made a mistake but lots of people make mistakes in life - half the people who judge him have probably made more mistakes.
"It is easy to kick someone when they are down. He has got a second chance now. He has got the backing of the chairman and hopefully he will do well.
"He made a big mistake, you can't do what he did, and he has accepted that. He has apologised I am sure he has learned from that."
Mackay has been out of work for almost a year after getting sacked by Cardiff City in December.
