McEwan pleads for Stags fans' patience
The Stags go into tomorrow's FA Cup fourth qualifying round tie at York having lost their last four matches.
The last of those defeats, at home to Wrexham last Saturday, sparked an angry reaction from some members of the crowd.
But McEwan urged fans to look at the wider picture and remember that the squad was assembled at the last minute because of a late take-over.
He said: "We were doing well and then we had a couple of what I would call dicky results at home, and all the word collapsed in some people's eyes.
"I realise it is only a handful but if they get on to others then it will become a problem, and we don't need that.
"It (rebuilding the club) won't be achieved in one or two seasons. Oxford are still in the Conference. Doncaster took six years to come back up, Hereford nine years and Accrington 44 years. We have no divine right to get out of this division.
"I came back for the love of the club, I have some very fond memories here, and I will not be forced out because of what a few fans think.
"We only want people (to come to games) if they get behind us."
McEwan feels it is inevitable that criticism of his players will take its toll.
He said: "It even affects England. People were talking about Gerrard and co not being able to put results together and Capello came in and asked for fans to get behind the team.
"No matter how great players are, they can still suffer from a lack of confidence."
McEwan is hopeful of bringing in a midfielder to replace Sam Wedbury, who has returned to Sheffield United. Alan O'Hare (illness) and Aaron O'Connor (injury) are back in training.
Bill McEwan
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