Aston Villa director General Charles Krulak admits supporters were right to demand the sacking of Gerard Houllier this week.
The Frenchman, who only took charge at Villa Park in September, angered fans following the 3-0 defeat to Liverpool by saying: “If I have got to lose 3-0, I would prefer it to be to them as I like Liverpool.”
Houllier later claimed his comments were intended to be humorous, but with Villa just two points above the relegation zone, supporters are in no mood for jokes.
And Krulak, owner Randy Lerner’s right-hand man, has admitted he is baffled by the former Liverpool boss’ comments.
He said: “What I don’t know is what was going through his mind at the time – and neither does anyone else.
“Nor am I able to truly understand what he was feeling before, during and after the game, feelings that led him to make the comments he did.
“I am not going to try to minimise what he said, make excuses. There is no denying what he said, it is there for all to see.”
And Krulak added: “Those who are looking for his head have the right to feel that want. They buy the tickets and can say what they want.
“I can assure you that I have passed on your thoughts to Randy, the board and to our manager.”