Birmingham City co-owner David Sullivan insists the board are happy and united.

He even understands why managing director Karren Brady felt the need to go public in the press last season, when she was frustrated at the team's lack of progress.

He said: "We all get on incredibly well. I believe, at the time, the board were entitled to speak their mind.

"There was a spell of 12 points from 11 games - relegation, not promotion form. Maybe it should all be done behind closed doors.

"But supporters need to know we are hurting as much as they are."