Phil Brown 'extremely sad' to be sacked by struggling Hull

Phil Brown claimed he was 'very disappointed' and 'extremely sad' at Hull's decision to relieve him of his duties.

Brown was axed as manager today after a controversial week for the struggling Premier League side.

Saturday's 2-1 defeat against Arsenal left Hull second bottom of the table and came just five days after Jimmy Bullard and Nicky Barmby had a bust-up during a training session in a public park in the city.

Team-mates had to separate the pair and Brown apologised for the fracas, which was witnessed by members of the Women's Institute during a press conference on Friday.

"I am obviously very disappointed with the club's decision and the fact that I will now not have the opportunity to secure Hull City's status in the Barclays Premier League for a third consecutive season," Brown said in a statement released through the League Managers Association.

"Although I am extremely sad to be leaving Hull City, I am very proud of my achievements during my time as manager, especially having led the team into the top flight of football for the first time in the club's 104-year history and ahead of schedule.

"It has been a fantastic experience and I would like to offer my sincere thanks to all of the players, past and present, and also to my staff.

"Finally, I would like to thank the fans for their support and wish the club every success in the future."