Speaking to local radio, former Dale manager Steve Eyre spoke of his surprise at the sack, tho admitted that football is a results based business.
Eyre told Radio Manchester: "We've put a lot of good things into place and we possibly won't see the fruition of that for some time.
"Obviously you're always hopeful that when you get a bit of an opportunity you get a little bit of time.
"I don't think there has been too many poor performances, so while we were creating chances, scoring goals and playing well I obviously had incredible self belief in the team and staff.
"I don't think that the players will end up in those bottom four slots, whether myself and Frank would have stayed at the club, or now as we leave."
The full interview is available to listen to here.