Hughton: 'I'm Not Bitter'!

Last updated : 26 December 2010 By Footy Mad - Editor

CH

Chris Hughton: "I got a phonecall in the morning from the managing director (Derek Llambias).

"He wanted myself and (goalkeeping coach) Paul Barron to meet him at the stadium after training and of course I was told the news then.

"Yes it was a surprise.

"And the fact that Paul Barron was with me as well made it even more of a surprise. If the meeting was just myself I might have thought something was going to happen.

"There's lots of emotion. Obviously it's not a particularly nice thing to happen to anybody, particularly at a time when it is unexpected, but that's part of the game, and a part of the game you have to get on with and look forward.

"The reasons why they chose to terminate my contract are their reasons. I've been asked on numerous occasions my views on why, but the reality is I can't say too much.

"The answers to those questions can only be answered by the chairman, the managing director and the owner.

"It was a very quick conversation, but the club wanted to go in a different direction and of course they are the owners and managing director of the club, and it's their prerogative, their choice on how they want to run things.

"There were lots of opinions, certainly for the few days afterwards, and that goes back to what we spoke about earlier - most people were in disbelief at what had happened, but these are decisions that are made in football.

"It was over my head, the decisions are made by my bosses and in the end there isn't much you can do about that except look forward."

"There is not bitterness.

"I don't think you can afford to be that way.

"It's a wonderful club, and I look forward to going back there and seeing games in the future.

"I had fantastic time there over nigh on three years and I enjoyed living in the area. I don't think you can afford to be bitter. These decisions are made and whether they are right or not, they are made above your head so in the end there isn't too much you can do about it.

"There is no point dwelling on it too long, so I look forward. I've had a career in the game and it's a career I want to continue."