There's a lot of speculation going on here on all sides. I am aware of the case but haven't followed it closely, but:
1. The new contract question and the disciplinary hearing stuff could have been running side by side and totally unconnected.
2. he might have encouraged or even bullied the...
IF they sacked him because he refuses to take a paycut and or sign a new contract, then Derby are being somewhat daft. BUT there has to be more to it than that.