Cunningham a coward and a wimp, says Gold

BIRMINGHAM CITY chairman David Gold has branded former Irish captain Kenny Cunningham “a coward and a wimp”.

Cunningham, who earned 72 international caps, last week spoke out against decisions made by the manager and directors.

“What Cunningham said was not only insulting, he made himself look a coward and a wimp by the manner in which he did it,” said Gold.

“I am very angry about a lot of things that he said, particularly that this club has no soul and the owners have no passion for Blues.

“Why did I go and shake hands with Blues fans at Bolton after a meaningless end of season game?

“I’ll tell you why, it’s because I wanted to go and thank them for their support after what has been a dismal season for us.

“When I did that, the heart and soul of the club looked fine to me, thank you very much.”

Co-owner David Sullivan also blasted Cunningham, but admitted many of the Dubliner’s comments were true.

Gold resented Cunningham’s jibe that the club’s southern-based owners would walk away when it suits them.

“I accept that Kenny may have some evidence to base this on as far as Sullivan is concerned,” said Gold.

“He has often talked of buying into another club nearer to his Essex home. But I haven’t done that, so don’t tar me with that brush.”

Cunningham’s attack on manager Steve Bruce surprised many people.

According to Cunningham, coaching methods were poor, tactics almost unheard of, new players not used properly and Bruce made a huge mistake in not replacing the departing fitness coach at the beginning of the season.

The Blues’ chairman said: “I can’t comment on what he has said about Steve Bruce, but if he was so concerned about what was going on, why didn’t he voice his concerns to me?

“What Kenny did was trying to win over the fans in an interview that’s like going to the teacher with an apple,” said Gold.