The pair had to be separated during a warm down training session at a park next to the Humber Bridge, a day after Hull's 5-1 thrashing at Everton.

Brown said: "They were very unfortunate circumstances that happened on Monday. I'm not condoning that type of behaviour, but it's a passionate game and emotions do run high.

"Nicky Barmby has obviously got himself involved with Jimmy Bullard and it's a sign that they care.

"The incident was unsavoury, it was unfortunate. I'd like to apologise to the Women's Institute. I didn't realise there was a rally going on. There was apparently 50 to 100 women going on a march across the Humber Bridge.

"It happens on the training ground on a regular basis under the control of the football club, but it seems to have got out this time.

"There are no fractures within the camp. This squad is united. The players have settled their differences, it was back to normal on Tuesday. They shook hands and they are getting on with the job at hand, which is the challenge of 10 games in the Premiership.

"These things happen when the pressure is increased, and it certainly is as we get closer to the end of the season.

Hull, who are in the Premier League's relegation zone, face Arsenal on Saturday.