Duffen hits back over Pearson attack

Former Hull chairman Paul Duffen today responded to fierce criticism of his KC Stadium tenure from successor Adam Pearson.

Pearson used his programme notes ahead of last night's match against Aston Villa to blast Duffen, who resigned in October, allowing Pearson to return to the role he had previously held between 2001 and 2007.

"In my personal opinion, the decisions made by Mr Duffen were extremely short-sighted and lacking in business sense and specific football knowledge," wrote Pearson.

"He seems, albeit with the advantage of hindsight, to have had no understanding of the industry, Hull City AFC or the city of Hull itself."

He went on to accuse Duffen, who led Hull into the Premier League, of "poor business sense" and a "lack of moral responsibility" while describing the money spent on agents as "morally abhorrent".

With Hull looking destined for relegation after two seasons in the top flight, there are concerns the club may be forced into administration.

Duffen, though, maintained Hull have "one of the lowest squad wage bills in the Premier League and amongst the lowest levels of debt".

He added in his statement: "The successes were not achieved through financial muscle but through partnerships, ambition, team spirit, collective positive attitude and a stubborn refusal to fail.

"I firmly believe that if those qualities remain at the club then Hull City have every chance of playing a third season in the Premier League and I wish them well."