Vice-chairman Kesler leaves Hull by mutual consent

Tan Kesler had been executive vice-chairman of Hull City from January 2022

Executive vice-chairman Tan Kesler has left his position at Hull City by "mutual consent".

Kesler had been in the role ever since Turkish businessman Acun Ilicali assumed control of the Championship club in January 2022.

With experience in sports management and as a sport agent, fellow Turk Kesler had a big involvement in the day-to-day running of the Tigers.

But the club announced his departure in a short two-sentence statement on their website, stating that they had "parted ways".

With Ilicali rarely in Hull due to his showbusiness and entrepreneurial interests, Kesler had a key role.

And with his background, he was an important member in all discussions that involved potential transfers and new signings.

'More questions than answers'

Analysis - James Hoggarth, BBC Radio Humberside

The timing of this announcement is the greatest surprise, usually in these circumstances you get an indication that something is brewing. This time that wasn't the case.

It also comes when a large number of the fanbase are also edgy having seen the club sack head coach Liam Rosenior unexpectedly in the summer after finishing seventh last season.

So some supporters are guarded when decisions seem surprising – and the vague shortness of the statement poses more questions than answers – which may be cleared up quickly.

Kesler was very much seen as Ilicali's right hand person, running operations from Hull. He had a key role both in the off-the-field matters like efforts to regenerate the area around the MKM Stadium and create a sports village, as well as player recruitment – part of the so-called 'Brains Team'.

Going forward, will he be replaced by a single person? Or will the role be shared among a number of other talented people at the club, many of whom are local and have grown up with the Tigers at heart?