Source: SKY_Sports
Brown - Respect my authority
Hull City boss Phil Brown has warned Geovanni to respect his authority or get used to life on the substitutes' bench.
The talented Brazilian made the back pages for the wrong reasons at the weekend, as he reacted petulantly to be being substituted in the Tigers' 2-1 defeat by relegation rivals Blackburn Rovers.
Geovanni shook his head and stared aggressively at Brown upon learning he was to be replaced, with the club's fans seemingly backing the player as he was awarded a rapturous reception.
Brown, who contrary to reports did not fine the player, insists there can only be one man in charge of a football club - the manager.
After the game Geovanni apologised to his boss and while welcoming his contrition, Brown has laid down the law with regards future conduct.
Apologetic"He was very apologetic for his actions," Brown said. "But as far as I was concerned his actions were those of an angry man, as opposed to a composed man, and that's what I'm looking for.
"I'm looking for players who go across the white line and compose themselves, and can respect the decision (to substitute him) for the reasons it was taken.
"It was taken for the right reasons. If I printed the stats it would be there for everybody to see. But I'm not going to wash dirty clothes in public.
"It's not written in his contract that if he storms off and gets the huff that you can fine him," Brown added. "I'm a big boy, but he won't be doing it to me again - that's for sure.
"But it's between me and Geo, it's in-house, it will remain in-house, and he's got an opportunity on Wednesday to do something about it."
The 29-year-old was taken off as part of a double substitution just eight minutes into the second half on Sunday, following a largely ineffectual display which was typical of his recent dip in form.
Brown believes the Brazilian may be suffering from nerves as the season enters its most crucial phase, and cited a missed opportunity in the opening half when an uncharacteristically poor touch frittered away a dangerous position.
"Composure is absolutely key at the moment. Probably the best 'touch' player at the club had the best opportunity to score the opening goal. It was probably the heaviest touch I've seen him have since he came to this place," Brown said.
"But I know there's still a player in there who has something to offer between now and the end of the season but it has to come sooner rather than later."
Brown's admits the fans' reaction to his decision was difficult to accept.
"Of course it hurts," he said.
"But we're big boys and that's what we're in the game for, making big decisions. You've got to make them.
"Them venting their anger against me - I'll take that all day as long as they keep it away from the players."
