Hull manager Steve Bruce believes Paulo Di Canio's heavy-handed managerial style was one of the key reasons that led to the Italian's downfall as he was sacked as Sunderland head coach at the weekend.
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Despite saving the club from relegation last season, a woefall start to the new campaign leaves them rooted to the bottom of the table with just one point from five games.
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"You cannot manage in the Premier League these days through a fear factor," Bruce told talkSPORT.
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"You've got to be able to manage individuals.
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"Man management has become more relevant in my experience than coaching.
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"Once you get yourself in the Premier League, they're all good players and you've got to find a way of getting the best out of them.
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"It's never been my style to criticise anyone in public and I'm disappointed for Paolo. He's a character.
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"A manager's lost his job. Management is a lonely place and he's lost his job this morning. I feel sorry for any manager in that position. I've gone through it and it's not nice."
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Reports of a bust-up with two senior players and lack of trust within the dressing room over Di Canio's approach were also believed to have forced club owner Ellis Short to bring down the axe.