"I am surprised to find the knee-jerk reaction here that in the case of a morris side it is likely to be justified."

no...the reaction here has basically been that people would like to know the facts before they make a judgement.

"So, like a sensible person, I sought to find out more and to seek perspectives."

Oh...I thought anyone trying to do that would make discreet enquiries behind the scenes, rather than engaging in speculation and gossip on a messageboard.