Brighton & Hove Albion have responded to a recent statement from the League Managers' Association regarding their boss Gus Poyet.
The Uruguayan was suspended last month and was asked by the Brighton board to attend an internal hearing yesterday afternoon to discuss the matter. However, the 45-year-old opted not to appear "for disputed legal reasons".
It promoted this response from the LMA, who are representing Poyet: "Brighton & Hove Albion FC ordered Gus Poyet to attend a crucial disciplinary hearing today (Monday), despite the fact that he only returned from annual leave yesterday (Sunday) and the charges were not particularised until June 13.
"Further, the very lengthy appendices to the initial report comprise around 500 pages and these were also only delivered recently. Clearly Gus needs to have a fair and reasonable opportunity to respond to what we believe are unfounded charges against him.
"Also, it has repeatedly been made clear to the club that Gus's LMA representative, Richard Bevan was not available to accompany him today, but was available to attend on Thursday 20 or Friday 21 June as well.These two dates fall within the five working day period for an employee to offer alternatives to the original date set by the club as set out in the club's own handbook. We believe that our members are entitled to the same legal protections that other employees enjoy."
However, the Seagulls believe that the statement from the union was "neither fair nor accurate".
"Brighton & Hove Albion Football Club was disappointed and concerned to see comments made by the League Managers' Association in advance of the reconvened disciplinary hearing involving Gus Poyet. The LMA's statement was neither fair nor accurate," read a message on the club's official website.
"The club will not comment further at this stage because it is important that the disciplinary hearing takes place according to the relevant timescales and procedures. Meantime, the LMA is fully aware that the club has reserved its right to consider further action regarding the LMA's statement once the disciplinary process is complete."
Poyet has been in charge at the Amex Stadium since 2009.
Liam Apicella
