Official wanted Kean sacked in December

Hunt's letter, obtained by Sporting Intelligence, also details financial turmoil and the supporter unrest which has manifested itself at Ewood Park since the Venky's takeover of November 2010.

Writing after a stormy loss to Bolton last December, Hunt also warned of the danger of relegation from the Premier League - a fear which came true after defeat by Wigan on Monday night.

He was highly concerned about the direction of the club under the distant ownership of Indian firm Venky's and asks chairperson Anuradha Desai to allow him greater control.

Hunt, the most senior official at Ewood since the departure of former chairman John Williams more than a year ago, said in his 2,500-word document: "Publicly I have been asked to support the manager and I always have as I personally like Steve. I have supported him from the start and have been desperate for him to do well.

"However, I am now of the opinion that it isn't working and he is ready to go.

"He has lost the crowd and as a result of this game has lost the dressing room as well - the players no longer want to play for him. It is a shame and disappointing but we must act now to save the club. The board should be asked their opinion in who should be the new manager."