Hearn hits back in row

Former world championship semi-finalist Allen has been referred to the governing body WPBSA’s disciplinary committee over his use of an offensive word while berating Hearn after a 6-3 win over Adrian Gunnell in the last 32 of the UK Championship on Monday.

In response to the 'silly boy' comment, Allen turned up for his press conference after winning his last 16 match over Ali Carter with tape around his mouth.

The world number 12 Allen - initially criticised Hearn as he was unhappy that the traditional best-of-17 frame format of the UK Championship has been shortened until the semis

"The players don’t really matter (to Hearn), so **** the players," he said.

"When Barry came in, one of the first things he said was that the World Championship, UK and Masters wouldn’t be touched. Only 18 months later, the UK format has changed."

Allen was unrepentant after learning that he could be punished for his use of foul language while Hearn has apparently refused to rule out the possibility of taking legal action against Allen after his outburst.

"(I am) far too busy to worry about silly little boys making silly little comments," said Hearn.

"It is a shame (his comments) have overshadowed a first-class tournament. I've been watching it and enjoying it and the crowds are up.

"People say silly things, we all say silly things, but I am happy to let the disciplinary committee deal with it."

Speaking to local media about Allen's comments, Hearn said: "I'm also disappointed by the personal attack Mark has made with his comments that are slanderous and will be taking separate legal advice on the matter."

Allen said he was prepared to speak to Hearn in person to stop the matter winding up in a court dispute.

"Last time I checked all the players had freedom of speech and that was my opinion at the end of the day," said Allen.

"If he wants to get offended with it that is his problem. If he wants to take legal action that is no problem, I will fight it all the way.

"It is a little bit childish. I thought Barry was a bit longer in the tooth than that for that sort of carry on."

Allen seemed unaffected by the controversy on the table though as he moved into the quarter-finals with a 6-2 victory over Ali Carter with breaks of 78, 101, 70 and 67 helping him to win the match.

He will now play Marco Fu in the last eight after the Hong Kong potter disposed of world number one Mark Selby 6-3 in the evening's other match.

Allen will get his wish of a longer match in the semis if he beats Fu but could find things tough if Fu's performance against Selby is anything to go by.

Fu particularly stepped it up in the final two frames of the match. With the score 4-3, he produced a fine clearance from the final red with barely an easy balls on the table and then sealed the win with an 85 run.