QPR boss Harry Redknapp says Malky Mackay deserves a second chance after being named new manager of Wigan Athletic.
Mackay was appointed Wigan boss on Wednesday despite an ongoing Football Association investigation into racist, sexist and homophobic text messages sent during his spell in charge at Cardiff.
The revelations saw a move to Crystal Palace fall through in August, but Wigan chairman Dave Whelan has offered Mackay a route back into the game despite criticism from anti-discrimination groups.
"I am sure his life has been hell for the last few months," Redknapp said.
"He has made a mistake but lots of people make mistakes in life - half the people who judge him have probably made more mistakes.
"It is easy to kick someone when they are down. He has got a second chance now. He has got the backing of the chairman and hopefully he will do well.
"He made a big mistake - you can't do what he did, and he has accepted that. He has apologised I am sure he has learned from that."
Redknapp added: "I am not condoning what he's done but he has got another chance. People get second chances in life.
"Have a look around the world and see what happens. There are people who come out of prison who have murdered people, beat up old ladies - they get second chances.
"Dave Whelan knows he is going to get stick, but it is his football club and he has done what he believes is right."
