Former Albion manager Micky Adams rushed to the defence of underfire caretaker chief Bob Booker in the aftermatch of a horror display at Brentford.

Adams rang a radio phone-in last night to hit back at fans criticising him for leaving for Leicester and attacking Booker after the Seagulls lost 4-0 at Griffin Park.

The Foxes boss was on his way back from Bournemouth's home game against Luton Town when he tuned in to Ian Hart's Southern Counties radio programme.

The Argus columnist Hart said: "He was disgusted that one caller had a go at him for leaving for Leicester and he was appalled by people having a go at Bob, who he said is very loyal.

"He finished up by saying, Keep the faith."

Defiant Booker has warned the critics: "Don't write us off."

Booker made a disastrous return to his former club Brentford.

It was not the response he was looking for to last Saturday's 1-0 setback at Bournemouth but Booker has not given up hope of landing the managerial vacancy.

He said: "As bad as we have been in the last two games never write us off.

"I have just got to get on with it. People will be doubting me now and they will be doubting the players but I don't see it like that. I have to come in with them on Thursday and pick them up.

"The chairman will decide if I am in the frame. That might go on results, it might not. We will have to wait and see."

Booker did not mince his words over a dismal display as two Stephen Hunt penalties, plus goals by Jay Tabb and Ben May sentenced his side to a shocking defeat.

Hunt had another spot-kick saved by Michel Kuipers but that was little consolation to Booker.

"We weren't at the races," he admitted.

Albion are still top of the table, a point clear of Brian Horton's Port Vale and Bournemouth. Plymouth will take over at the top if they win at Sheffield Wednesday tonight.

Booker added: "I expect more from the players and I made them aware of that in no uncertain terms. It's down to us now. We are all in it together and we have got to look forward to Saturday's match at home to Stockport if we can."