Sunderland boss Ricky Sbragia blasted Hull City counterpart Phil Brown after victory yesterday.

Sbragia said: "Motivation-wise it wasn't a problem because we just put the stuff on the walls what Phil Brown said about Sunderland Football Club.

"I think a manager should just talk about his own club rather than criticising other clubs and what they've paid for players.

"I didn't have to chat with them, I just told them there was some good reading for them in the dressing room.

"I think the players have been excellent. I don't think they've under-achieved. It doesn't matter if they cost £10million or £1million - they go out there and give their all."

Brown expressed his surprise at Sbragia's criticism and was unrepentant over his comments, which he believes were exaggerated by headlines.

Brown said: "Is somebody questioning that they haven't spent the money? Is he saying that was an inspired performance? It's Ricky's prerogative, it's nothing to do with me."