Kean silent over Hunt reports

Blackburn manager Steve Kean has refused to discuss reports claiming the club's deputy chief executive Paul Hunt has been sacked.

There have been widespread reports that Hunt has left his position at Ewood Park a day after a letter in which he told owners Venky's that Kean should be removed surfaced in the media.

Kean, speaking at a press conference, said: "I am aware of the speculation but I can't, at this moment, confirm it. That is all I want to say on that matter. I just want to talk about the Chelsea game."

Confusion surrounds the situation with nobody else at the club able to comment on reports. The Rovers press department have been unable to obtain information, further highlighting the difficulties in communication between Ewood Park and the distant Indian owners.

Hunt has been the most senior official at the club since the departure of chairman John Williams more than a year ago.

His letter to Venky's, written after a damaging loss to Bolton, last December, warned of growing financial difficulties and the threat of relegation from the Premier League.

He also urged Venky's to allow him more executive power to run the club on their behalf as well as questioning Kean's suitability for the post. Hunt's fears regarding relegation were realised on Monday after a defeat by Wigan.

Hunt wrote of Kean: "He has lost the crowd and as a result of this evening's game has lost the dressing room as well - the players no longer want to play for him.

"It is a shame and disappointing but we must act now to save the club."

It is unknown whether Hunt received a reply but few of the recommendations in his 2,500-word letter were acted upon.