Tigers boss Brown took the unusual step of delivering part of his half-time team talk on the pitch as his side crashed to an embarrassing 5-1 defeat at Manchester City yesterday.

After a bright start to their maiden Barclays Premier League campaign, Hull have now shipped nine goals in their past two games and won just once in 10.

They remain seventh in the table but with just seven points separating them from the relegation zone, they could soon be looking over their shoulders.

The task of turning it around and lifting morale falls to Brown, who accepts it is one of the toughest tests of his management career.

"I think in the two years I have been in charge, the manner of that first-half performance was not characteristic," said Brown, whose side were 4-0 down after 36 minutes at Eastlands after doubles from Felipe Caicedo and Robinho.

"It has only happened only a handful of times in two years but I am bitterly disappointed.

"I don't accept that kind of performance, I don't accept that level of commitment for a Phil Brown team or a Hull City team.

"I don't need to pick the players up - I think they need to know what I am all about.

"This is my time, management is a difficult job. There are one or two harsh realities to be kicked in and I'll kick them in."

Hull at least salvaged some pride in the second half as Craig Fagan, returning after three months out with a broken leg, grabbed a consolation.

It was not over, however, as Stephen Ireland capped a devastating display by taking a pass from the equally influential Robinho to tuck home the hosts' fifth.

Brown has previously said he is not planning "wholesale changes" in the January transfer window but he admitted yesterday's loss may alter his thinking.

When asked if it would have any bearing, he replied: "Very much so."

Brown's mood also suggested there had been more harsh words for his players after the game.

"What has been said in the changing room will stay in the changing room but they certainly know my opinion and my views," he added.

Hull do not face the same quick turnaround as most teams this weekend with Brown's men not back in action until the visit of Aston Villa on Tuesday.