Hull City have been put into administration following their High Court winding-up order.

The order was issued by Customs and Excise and the Inland Revenue for payment of £500,000 and other debts believed to total £1million.

The appointment of administrators could mean the management team of Brian Little and his assistants, Kevan Smith and David Moore are among the first cuts to be made. Smith is a former York City player.

Hull have effectively been given 14 days by the High Court to secure their future.

Kroll Buchler -Phillips, a leading corporate recovery and financial restructuring group in Leeds, were appointed joint administrators of Hull City AFC Limited by order of the High Court.

Over the next two weeks, administrators will be attempting to identify potential investors to the club and secure funding for the remainder of the season.

The administrators will also be liaising with the landlords of Boothferry Park to reach an agreement for the continued occupation of the ground so that forthcoming fixtures may be met.

Mike Moore, from Kroll Buchler Phillips, said: "We intend that the club will continue to fulfil its obligations to the Football League during this period and that the club will trade as normal.

"The continued support of the local community and followers is crucial at this time."

Hull chairman Nick Buchanan said he was delighted with the order.

He said: "This was one hurdle which we have managed to get over and I am delighted that we have another two weeks to secure the future of the club.

"The next hurdle now is negotiating with David Lloyd so we can get into the ground and fulfil our home fixture against Leyton Orient on Saturday."

Lloyd, who owns Boothferry Park, sent the bailiffs in yesterday and locked officials and staff out of the stadium.

Despite claiming to be owed around £45,000 in unpaid rent, Lloyd said his actions were not for financial reasons but to secure the long-term future of the club.

Updated: 15:26 Wednesday, February 07, 2001