Ex-Tiger Watch 2013

Where are former Hull City players heading this summer? Here's a list.

Amr Zaki - ENPPI (EGY) to Al-Salmya (KUW) - Free
Andy Dawson - Hull City to Scunthorpe United - Free
Bradley Ricketts - Hull City - Released
Carl Regan - Bury - Released
Chris Bolder - North Ferriby to Scarborough Athletic - Free
Corry Evans - Hull City to Blackburn Rovers - £750k
Craig Fagan - Bury - Released
Danny East - Hull City to Portsmouth - Free
Danny Emerton - Hull City to Northampton Town - Free
Danny Webb - Dover to Chelmsford - Free
David Amoo - Tranmere Rovers to Carlisle United - Free
Dele Adebola - Rochdale - Released
Francis McCaffrey - Hull City to Dundalk (IRE) - Free
Gary Bradshow - North Ferriby to Scarborough Athletic - Free
Harry Cardwell - Hull City to Reading - £75k
Jack Hobbs - Hull City to Nottingham Forest - Loan (with permanent agreement)
Jamie Devitt - Hull City - Released
Jay Simpson - Hull City - Released
Joel Sutton - Hull City - Released
John Bostock - Tottenham Hotspur - Released
Jozy Altidore - AZ Alkmaar (HOL) to Sunderland - £8m
Kamil Zayatte - Istanbul BB (TUR) to Sheffield Wednesday - Free
Kealon Dillon - Hull City to St. Mirren (SCO) - Free
Lewis Clarkson - Hull City - Released
Mark Cullen - Hull City to Luton Town - Free
Mark Yeates - Watford to Bradford City - Free
Matt Duke - Bradford City to Northampton Town - Free
Paul Anderson - Bristol City to Ipswich Town - Free
Paul McKenna - Hull City - Released
Phil Jevons - Hyde United to Stockport County - Free
Richard Hinds - Yeovil Town - Released
Rowan Vine - St Johnstone to Hibs (SCO) - Free
Sam Ricketts - Bolton Wanderers to Wolves - Free
Scott Kerr - York City to Grimsby Town - Free
Seyi Olofinjana - Hull City - Released
Sonny Bradley - Hull City to Portsmouth - Free
Stephen Hunt - Wolves - Released
Steven Mouyokolo - Free Agent to Celtic (SCO) - Free
Thomas Davie - Hull City - Released
Vito Mannone - Arsenal to Sunderland - 2.8m
Will Atkinson - Bradford City to Southend United - Free

 

Tigers Squad Review 2013 - Forwards

2012/13 report

The Hull City forward line. A cause of concern and debate for the past three seasons. For all the good football we've played and for all the chances we've created, we haven't scored the goals we should have. We've scored enough (just) but aside from Matt Fryatt's near 1 in every 2 starts and Robert Koren's 8 or 9 from midfield, we just haven't had players who threaten the net enough. Fryatt missed almost the entire season this time with an achilles injury. The few games he did manage were irrelevant, he was nowhere near fit. His absence initially left The Tigers with three "natural" front players. Nick Proschwitz, the German signed for big money from Paderborn in the summer, looked to be the big front player we'd been desperate for since we dropped out of the Premier League. He never really settled though and struggled to impose himself in games. He wasn't quick enough, wasn't strong enough wasn't brave enough and wasn't good enough with his back to goal. He had some highlights. His late brace to see off Ipswich was crucial, his tremendous volley  at Leyton Orient in the FA Cup was the goal of the season and he nicked an equaliser against Cardiff on the final day that was, quite simply, priceless. Aaron McLean started only a handful of games before leaving for a loan spell at Ipswich in January. He's a willing worker but lacks the quality around the box in the Championship. Jay Simpson was the other "striker" in the squad. He's a good player, has decent feet, under-rated strength, intelligent movement and an eye for a pass. Outside the box, he brings a lot to the side but he doesn't have a strikers instinct and is erratic in front of goal. His heading is occasionally brilliant but often weak and his first touch is either sublime or ridiculous. He was often left out because he wasn't scoring goals but work his way back in because he was a good foil for others.

Frustrated with the efforts of his supposed strikers, Steve Bruce turned often to Sone Aluko and Robert Koren to play up or off the front in the first half of the season. Aluko was a revelation. He's got incredible balance and is able to evade challenges while stumbling or turn a defender while facing the wrong way. He's a really exciting player, the sort people pay to see and as a free signing from Rangers, was one of the bargains of the summer. Had he played the whole season, he'd have been in contention for Championship player of the season, he'd have got close to 20 goals and we'd have been promoted in March. Probably. As it was, his season was cut short in January by another achilles injury and he proved difficult to replace. Koren fell just short of double figures for the third season in a row. His impact wasn't quite so spectacular, probably as a result of having better players all around him.

With goals proving hard to come by despite the Tigers lofty league position and Bruce frustrated by fruitless pursuits of two muppets called Campbell in the January window, we instead took a chance on a previously unknown Egyptian called Gedo. Unknown in Europe that is, Gedo had a strong reputation in Africa having enjoyed Nations Cup success with his national team. He'd make a spectacular entry into English football. After a nondescript debut as a substitute at Brighton, he scored 5 goals in his next 5 games, all at the KC Stadium. He went off the boil a little thereafter, City losing the next 4 games he was involved in, with a foot injury being the probable reason for the loss of form. A final dip into the transfer market saw the arrival of George Boyd from Peterborough, initially on loan but with an agreement in place to sign permanently in the summer. He also settled quickly, used mainly as a front player, and scored 4 times in his first 6 appearances including a strike in the first minute of his home debut and a fantastic and vital winning goal at Huddersfield. He then faded as the long season took it's toll on the Tigers squad and ended the season with a whimper. In fact, his record of 4 win in 13 appearances isn't at all impressive. It's a wonder we got promoted at all!

The Future

Jay Simpson will not be retained when his contract expires at the end of June and neither will youth product Mark Cullen, who has never really hit the heights he first threatened to. I don't think Bruce will pursue the permanent signing of Gedo and I have a feeling Nick Proschwitz may well return to Germany if we can find a buyer. Aaron McLean will also be allowed to move on, I'm sure. A fit Sone Aluko and Matt Fryatt will provide a boost in pre-season, Aluko especially if I'm honest. However it has to be said that without doubt, we must find a goal scorer. Because of our tight defence, we've gotten away with profligacy time and again but we can't realistically expect to do so in the top flight. Good teams will punish you far too often for missing chances. We need at least two strikers, perhaps even three if a clear out ensues.

We've already been linked with moves for Jordan Rhodes of Blackburn, who we surely can't afford, and Burnley's Charlie Austin. Both are good finishers who deserve a crack at the big league. I wouldn't turn down either.

Five to consider

Peter Odemwingie (West Brom) - A real figure of fun after his ridiculous antics in the January transfer window. This overshadows the fact that he's a very good front player with a decent record in the Premier League. He has pace to burn, he occupies and worries defences, he has good technical ability and that eye for a goal. He comes with baggage and probably a bit of a sideshow but he's a proven commodity at a bargain price.

Luchiano Becchio (Norwich) - It hasn't happened at all for him since he left Leeds for Norwich in January. We were interested then but couldn't compete realistically. Norwich may well cut their losses with the imminent arrival of the wonderfully named Ricky Van Wolfswinkel and we could be at the head of the queue. Becchio is a strong front player, a big threat in the air and decent finisher. If we set up again to get crosses into the box, he'd thrive on that.

Dwight Gayle (Peterborough) - January signing for the Posh from Dagenham and Redbridge. He made an immediate impact in the Championship with his quick movement and his composed finishing. He's a nippy front player who plays off the shoulder and continues to improve at a rapid rate. Rumoured to be a target for Aston Villa.

Marlon King (Birmingham) - Just kidding.

Fraizer Campbell (Cardiff) - Kidding again! Sorry.

Adam Le Fondre (Reading) - An absolute born goalscorer. He just has the knack, the intangible that you can't really teach. He's a "right place, right time" sort of player. His all-round game isn't great, though t is improving. He's not going to win the ball in the air, pull down long balls and bring people into play but if you put the ball in good areas, he'll score goals. His asking price could be high if there is sufficient interest in him but as neither of his last two managers have shown the faith in him to be a Prmeier Legae striker week in, week out, he could be tempted.

Darren Bent (Aston Villa) - I'll admit, I don't see this one. He's on something like £80,000 a week and Villa want to recoup a decent amount of the £24m they paid for him. He'd have to take a 50% pay-cut to become the second highest paid player in our history. He's also been less than complimentary about us in his past! I'll add that I'm not a massive fan of him at the top level. I've never thought he had the all-round game to play for England or in a top four team. What's indisputable though is that with his pace and his finishing ability, when he's part of a team that's set up for him, he's a goal scorer. He has history with Steve Bruce and he needs a home and we need a goal scorer. So it fits. But it's 5% likely I think and that's being generous.

Tigers Squad Review 2013 - Midfielders

2012/13 report

The area of the team that evolved the most over the course of the season. We started with a four man midfield for the opening couple of games but for the most part, we'd play a three with two wing backs thereafter. We also started with Robert Koren and Sone Aluko as part of the midfield but they were generally considered for the front line afterwards, while four of the regular five in midfield arrived (and departed) throughout the season.

Steve Bruce was always looking to get more "beef" in midfield. It was obvious from the start he thought we were too small and lacked strength in that department. Despite playing a big part the previous season and starting this, Paul McKenna was swiftly cast aside. If Bruce felt he lacked the bite and size he wanted, the stupid red card at Doncaster and resulting three match ban didn't endear him to the manager either. He played sporadically after that and was sent to Fleetwood on loan. Corry Evans was another vertically challenged player who struggled to hold down a regular place. Unlike McKenna, Evans has the mobility to make up for it but despite his generally stellar performances, he was often left out for someone a bit bigger or nastier. He had a dip in form in the new year (put down to coping with having a new baby by the manager) but was always a key part of the midfield when we played well. The manager attempted to get some of the height he craved in the team by calling on forgotten man Seyi Olofinjana. Like Paul McShane, Olofinjana was in the last year of a lucrative contract and had been cast aside by previous managers. Bruce eventually found out why. While capable of the odd strong performance, moving the ball around midfield, Oily is generally a passenger. He's forgotten how to tackle and track runners and he's got no idea what that big white rectangle thing at the end of the pitch is for. He ended the season at Sheffield Wednesday on loan. Cameron Stewart started on the opening day against Brighton; his only league start of the season. He took in loan spells at Burnley and Blackburn and didn't play there either. Tom Cairney didn't manage a single league start despite being praised for his conditioning on his comeback from injury. Youngster Dougie Wilson broke into the first team reckoning for the early rounds of the FA Cup and then went to Grimsby to get a bit of experience. Ahmed Fathi came in with Gedo in January but never made a break through. His big chance came against Wolves when he started the game, played very well and then gifted them the ball to score the winning goal.

On the final day of the summer transfer window, Bruce picked up Ahmed "Elmo" Elmohamady on loan from Sunderland and stole Stephen Quinn from Sheffield United for a fee maxing out at £100,000. Their first three games for the Tigers were the 3-1 win over Bolton, 4-1 drubbing of Millwall and the 3-2 win at Elland Road. I wonder if any player has ever had such success in his first three appearances? Quinn was a revelation in midfield. A busy, biting figure with a shock of ginger hair. He works incredibly hard but it's never wasted effort, it always has a purpose, be it covering his full back at one end or arriving in the box with a beautifully timed run at the other. He made a massive difference to our game. As did Elmo who became the regular right wing-back. His impact became obvious in January when he was recalled for a spell by Sunderland. Even a full back as good as Liam Rosenior couldn't fill his boots at wing-back. We missed Elmo's drive, his strength and particularly his ability to dig out a cross from anywhere in the attacking third. A season of marauding from goal-line to goal-line eventually took its toll on him but his contribution, regardless, was massive.

In November, Bruce completed his midfield. Firstly Robbie Brady arrived on loan from Manchester United to cover the injury to left back Joe Dudgeon. Brady spent the previous season on loan with us and while he had obvious ability, he could also be incredibly wasteful, making terrible decisions around the box. He'd shoot when he should pass (and not score) and try and beat a man when he could get a cross in (and lose the ball). I'll be honest, I didn't see him as a left back (or even wing back) in a million years. He'd prove that to be very wrong. He's not perfect, he still combines wrong decisions with over hit crosses and woeful set pieces but the ratio of good to bad is much higher. Defensively he was rarely found wanting and he provided his fair share of goals and assists. When the threat of a promotion rival pinching him in January became apparent, the club shelled out £2.5m to sign him permanently. He paid that off in one afternoon with a magnificent performance in the final day shoot-out with Cardiff. The other November addition was Sunderland midfielder David Meyler. He has a lot of the aggression and size that Steve Bruce had craved since day one. His initial loan move was also turned into a permanent deal in January for a similar fee to that spent on Brady. It also proved good business as he stiffened us up, linked well with Elmohamady and chipped in with five goals. His passing can be erratic and what he brings isn't always appreciated but when he was absent through suspension late in the season, we missed him big time.

The Future

Midfield looks to be our strongest area, squad wise. When you add-in forwards Boyd, Koren and Aluko, we have a fair number of options. Bruce would probably still like a big defensive midfielder and will have to replace Elmohamady, either as a wing back or a right winger. He'd probably like to buy Elmohamady but will be keeping his options open.

It's the end of the line for McKenna, Olofinjana and probably youngster Danny Emerton, who are all out of contract. Cameron Stewart has no future here either. I'd also be surprised if we pursue a permanent deal for Fathi. An interesting case is that of Tom Cairney. He has obvious ability and performed well in the Premier League last time but has never really taken on the Championship. I wouldn't be shocked if he was sold. Nor would I be completely stunned if Corry Evans moved on. I'd be disappointed but I've never felt like Steve Bruce really rates him.

Five to consider

Mile Jedinak (Crystal Palace) - This guy needs to be playing Premier League football next season, regardless of whether Palace win the Play-off final. He's a big presence in midfield, he's good in the air, solid in the tackle and can play a bit too. He's probably the sort of leader we've been missing for a good couple of seasons. Real captain material.

 Liam Bridcutt (Brighton) - Terrific little defensive midfield player, a product of Chelsea's youth system. He breaks up play incredibly well and launches attacks from the back. He's comfortable on either foot, quick over the ground and switches play with accurate long passes. His height would possibly put Steve Bruce off and his price tag may well be prohibitive too. If he was our player, I'd be wanting £3m for him, minimum.

Rodolph Austin (Leeds) - Jamaican international brought to Leeds last summer by Neil Warnock. Stoke tried to sign him during our original sojourn into the Premier League but couldn't get a work permit. He's a hulking defensive midfielder who loves a tackle and has a decent shot on him. Can cross the line between committed and undisciplined so is a risk but is a good athlete and a commanding presence.

Bakary Sako (Wolves) - The one bright spot in an awful season for Wolves as they escaped the Championship at the first time of asking, but through the wrong door. A lightening quick winger with tricky feet and a real eye for goal. He's capable of delivering good crosses. He's had a good footballing education, he's only 25 and has a season in England under his belt. Well worth a look.

Luke Murphy (Crewe) - The latest star off the Gresty Road production line. 23 year old central midfielder already approaching 200 career appearances. Tidy, mobile, often inventive and with an eye for goal. He's going to get a big move soon and it would be nice to see City use a rare position of strength to snap up a genuinely brilliant prospect.

Tigers Squad Review 2013 - Defenders

2012/13 report

I don’t know when Steve Bruce came up with the idea of playing three centre halves, whether it was always his intention or something he fell into but one of the first things he did last summer was increase his stock of centre halves. Following Jack Hobbs injury the previous season, Nick Barmby had been forced to use Liam Cooper and Sonny Bradley in the centre of defence. Bruce wasn’t planning to do the same. With the two young lads out of the equation and only a useless ginger Irishman as backup, Bruce had to find help for James Chester. Chester, our crown jewel, had another fine season. Whether in a back three or four, he’s always the same. Composed, assured and confident, capable of bringing the ball out of defence and launching an attack. He’s quick over the ground and strong in the air for one so, relatively, small. He generally times his tackles beautifully though it does go spectacularly wrong occasionally. There are areas where he’s still learning, he gets too tight at times and has to concede fouls and he can get over confident with the ball at his feet. Bruce strengthened the back line with the popular signing of Abdoulaye Faye and the less popular signing of his son, Alex Bruce. Faye produced what most thought he would. He was rock-like at the back. He proved valuable in the air in both boxes and calmed everyone with his vast experience. At times his age caught up with him and he had to be rested or picked up niggling injuries. Because of the competition, this often meant missing numerous games until his chance came again which must have been deeply frustrating. At the crucial point of the season, when fatigue and expectation overcame most players, he produced his best performances of the season, proving himself a big game player.

Alex Bruce suffered from the “nepotism” tag when he joined. His reputation was also damaged by having been part of the habitually pathetic Leeds United defence prior to joining. His performances in black and amber made a mockery of it all. He barely put a foot wrong when called upon to play in defence. Even when asked to play in midfield to provide a bit of bite, he gave it everything and played his part in two vital away wins at Millwall and Burnley. He’s not technically gifted but he’s got bottle and determination by the lorry load. Speaking of which, Jack Hobbs returned in December, having suffered a serious knee injury 8 months prior, and looked like he hadn’t missed a beat. He settled back in quickly and produced the same consistent level of performance as he had before the injury, even though the Tigers were now playing a back three. He’d obviously been taking everything in whilst sitting on the sidelines.

It was fortunate for Steve Bruce that he had five centre halves available to him because Chester apart, they all suffered injuries at one time or another throughout the season. Whenever one went out, someone else came in and did a good job. The most surprising of those was the aforementioned useless ginger Irishman. Paul McShane's Hull City career was going nowhere in September. He was counting down the days until his contract ended and he could go elsewhere. The fans were counting down the days until we didn't have to pay him anymore. Then he played. And he was good. And he played again. And he was good again. Game by game he turned everyone around. To the point where there'd be disappointment on the terraces if he was missing and fans were demanding he be offered a new contract. And then he recovered from a season ending injury in about 5 minutes and scored the goal that won promotion. Redemption.

It' difficult to judge the Tigers full backs this season. Joe Dudgeon was a fixture at left back early on and looked much improved before his season was cruelly ended by injury. The always reliable Liam Rosenior was sidelined by the wing back system and the form of Elmohamady. Andy Dawson rarely featured in his testimonial season, a sad end to a "hall of fame" career for Daws at Hull City.

The Future

Several defensive players are out of contract this summer. Youngsters Danny East and Sonny Bradley have already moved on to Portsmouth with new contracts not being offered. Andy Dawson looks set to see his time at the club come to an end. Liam Rosenior should be offered a new contract, we won't find a more committed and versatile defender for free. Paul McShane will definitely be offered a new deal too. Abdoulaye Faye has triggered another year due to his appearances last season.

James Chester had another year on his contract but the club are desperate to have him extend it, for obvious reasons. He looks to be our one genuine Premier League quality defender. Faye obviously has been in the past but I wouldn't want to have to rely on him most weeks given his lack of pace. Alex Bruce, as good as he was last season, isn't a Premier League defender. Jack Hobbs has a way to go before he is too. And this may not be popular but I don't think Paul McShane is good enough either. It's been great to see his recovery and he deserves a new contract and another shot at it but he's still not quick enough or big enough. Hopefully the rashness has gone with added experience.

I'd be surprised if we take the 3-5-2 system into the Premier League. Regardless, I think we need at least one top class centre half and competition at full back on both sides.

Five to consider

Curtis Davies (Birmingham) - Davies has already been linked with The Tigers. If he's the sort of player Steve Bruce is looking at, it justifies everyone's faith in Bruce as the man to take us forward. Davies has always had the size and athleticism to be an impressive centre back but has shown the maturity and knowledge of the position in the last few years. There'll be strong competition for him, from his old boss Chris Hughton at Norwich for starters, but he'd be a very astute signing.

Maynor Figueroa (Wigan) – I'm surprised this link hasn't appeared in the national press yet, it's such a good fit. Figueroa was brought to England by Steve Bruce. He can play as a left back or as a left sided centre half in a back three. He's got good size, pace and strength, he attacks well and he's capabale of the odd spectacular strike on goal. I'm unsure of his availability after Wigan's relegation but he'd be a fine addition to a young, hungry squad.

Rhys Williams (Middlesbrough) – This is a questionable one, I'll admit. Williams was building a terrific career for himself, progressing from the youth setup at Boro to become club captain and attracting interest from some top sides. He then suffered an injury in 2012 and has never recovered his previous form. Because of that, his asking price will be significantly lower and the competition for his signature less stiff. It'd be a gamble but he's a fine player and with a fresh start and a good pre-season, he'd be a useful addition, fitness permitting. He's versatile, mobile and only 24 years old.

Craig Dawson (West Brom) - England U21 international and Great British Olympian who signed for WBA in 2010 but has never quite made a place his own. Enjoyed an impressive loan spell at Bolton and proved his worth at both ends by scoring twice against the Tigers on one particularly miserable afternoon at the Reebok Stadium. He's still only 23 and will improve with regular football.

Matthew Upson (Stoke) – Ex-England international who has spent the last two season in the career graveyard known as the Britannia Stadium. Has recently enjoyed a loan spell at Brighton where he's found some of his old form. He may be 34 but he's still fit enough to play at least another year at a decent level. He's a left sided centre half who'd give good balance, he can play out from the back and he doesn't mind a battle. He's available for free this summer. He wouldn't be first on my list but he'd be a decent Plan B.

Tigers Squad Review 2013 - Goalkeepers

2012/13 report

The Tigers used four goalkeepers throughout the league season while 18 year old Joe Cracknell, who has just signed his first pro contract, had to sit on the bench for the three FA cup ties. On-loan Manchester United ‘keeper Ben Amos started the season as Steve Bruce’s preferred number one. Having another loanee between the sticks was far from ideal but the England U21 international came with a good reputation. He settled well but mistakes crept into his game, small ones at first but they lead to howlers against Bristol City (away) and Blackpool (home) that shattered his confidence and Bruce lost faith in him. Amos returned to Manchester United before Christmas and was replaced by another loanee, Fulham’s David Stockdale. The big former-Darlo stopper made solid impression on most City fans and his confidence helped the defence recover their composure and he played a part in wins at Forest and Watford. Stockdale was recalled from his loan in December forcing Bruce to turn to free signing Eldin Jakupovic. The Bosnian also started well enough, despite looking shaky under crosses, but met a similar fate to Amos as his season imploded in spectacular fashion against Sheffield Wednesday at the KC Stadium. Robert Koren had just equalised for The Tigers when Jakupovic threw a harmless looking corner into his own goal. He was then injured in trying to recover the ball and left the field on a stretcher. That led to a City debut for Mark Oxley. He was signed from Rotherham in the glorious summer of 2008, one of the few promising players picked up while City enjoyed a rare position of strength, but had only managed unused sub appearances prior to this cameo. Bruce had to act following Jakupovic’s career suicide and was able to bring Stockdale back from Fulham for the rest of the season. That proved crucial in the run-in. Stockdale wasn’t flawless, he’s capable of dropping a cross or punching poorly, but he’s decisive and he’s brave enough to come for the next cross after dropping one. He was a steady influence on the defence when it mattered.

The Future

Loanee Stockdale has returned to Fulham and despite Steve Bruce’s interest in signing him permanently, it appears that Fulham’s asking price (speculated to be £3-4m) will prove prohibitive. Jakupovic will never be anything more than a back-up, probably relegated to third choice over the summer. Oxley is one of a number of players out of contract. At 22, he’s perhaps worth holding onto for another year. However, if Steve Bruce and GK coach Gary Walsh don’t think he’s likely to trouble the first team, he’ll be on his way. A first choice, permanent goalkeeper is number one on the priority list this summer.

Five to consider

Kasper Schmeichel (Leicester) – The son of Manchester United and Denmark great, Peter, Schmeichel is well known to and admired by City fans having impressed in the nets for Leeds and Leicester in opposition in the past few years. He’s confident and agile, lightening quick off his line and has excellent reactions. Not being the biggest, he can be troubled by crosses and his distribution isn’t the best. Leicester paid around £2m to take him from Leeds and will at least want their money back. At 26, he’s a good age and is desperate to play in the Premier League.

Simon Moore (Brentford) – The 22-year old has earned rave reviews starring for play-off finalists Brentford. He’s been a regular in the League One side for the past couple of seasons having been plucked from non-league Farnborough. He’s tall and agile and exudes confidence for one so young. He’s nowhere near the finished article and unlikely to be a Tigers number one but he is someone the club have had watched.

Shay Given (Aston Villa) – Experienced, international ‘keeper who at 37 has spent a season on the bench at Villa, watching ex-Tiger loanee Brad Guzan establish himself as number one. Manchester City paid £6m for Given four years ago but a similar fate befell him there as Joe Hart took over. He’d be an  ideal signing for a lower half Premier league team. He has bags and bags of experience having clocked up 400 appearances for Newcastle and 125 international caps. He’s a terrific shot stopper and while his height means he won’t wade into a crowded box and take crosses, it’s not held him back. Will surely be allowed to leave Villa Park for free despite having 3 years left on his contract.

Vito Mannone (Arsenal) – Another well known figure amongst City fans having spent two spells on loan at the KC. Had Nick Barmby stayed on as manager last summer, Vito would have been his number one summer target. He may not be on Steve Bruce’s radar however. He should be though, he’s a solid keeper, he’s vocal and he has terrific distribution. He’s coming to an age now where he needs to play first team football. His career is passing him by at Arsenal. Should be valued at around £1.5m.

Boaz Myhill (West Brom) – Why? He’s Boaz Myhill.

Ten Years At The KC Stadium - #8

In this series of blogs, I'll pick the Top 10 Players, Games and Goals from the 10 years at the KC Stadium and will throw in a variety of top 10 lists and boring facts! This is number three in the series and number eight in the countdown:

Top 10 Players - #8

Boaz Myhill
 
If, on the day Boaz Myhill signed for Hull City in December 2003, someone had told you that he’d take the club through three promotions, play at the biggest grounds in the country, produce the best goalkeeping display Match Of The Day has ever highlighted, go onto be sold for thirty times what we paid for him and become the only possible answer other than “Tony Norman” in answer to the question “Who is Hull City’s greatest ever goalkeeper?”, then you’d most probably have been sectioned. Or shot.

Bo spent the first half of the 2003/04 season on loan at Macclesfield, playing 16 times, and Stockport, where he played 3 games, from his parent club Aston Villa. Peter Taylor saw something in the 21 year-old and paid £50,000 to bring him to the KC Stadium. He was immediately installed as the Tigers number one and, despite a surprise home defeat against Mansfield on his debut, he held onto the position for the rest of the season and helped City to a first promotion in 19 years. A promotion which was immediately followed by a second. Myhill missed only 2 league games in the next 3 seasons and was named the club’s Player of the Season in 2005/06 as the Tigers stayed in the Championship. In a remarkable game at Stoke in January 2006, Myhill saved two Stoke penalties to help City to a 3-0 win.

Everyone knows what happened in 2007/08. Myhill cemented his place in Hull City history as the club clinched promotion in the play-off final at Wembley. Myhill’s save at Watford in the semi-final (see above) is one of the best I’ve ever seen. If any other goalkeeper has ever played for the same team through all four divisions in the English league, I’m not aware of it. Myhill, who made his international debut for Wales in 2008, had two solid seasons in the top flight. As The Tigers magnificent start to the 2008/09 season faded after Christmas, Myhill started to struggle for form and lost his place to Matt Duke for a few games.  Despite the following season ending in relegation from the top flight and the Tigers suffering a few hammerings along the way, Bo generally remained solid in goal. He found himself playing behind a collection of morons at centre-half. In January at White Hart Lane, Myhill had the sort of game most ‘keepers can only dream about repelling Spurs SIXTEEN shots on target, making several miraculous saves and rendering Match Of The Day commentator, and Spurs fan, John Motson near-speechless.

Following the Tigers relegation and the revelation that the club was in severe financial danger, Myhill was sold to West Brom for around a million and a half quid. It was a move he didn’t want but took because the club needed to sell him. Myhill is one of the best investments Hull City have ever made. In fact, he’s probably the best £50,000 anyone ever spent. Not only because of the financial return but because of the service he provided in six and a half brilliant seasons “in the middle of our goal”. Bo is a true immortal.

Top 10 Matches - #8

Hull City 1 Swansea City 0 - 30/09/2003

It’s the final day of September, 2003. The Tigers sit second in the Division 3 table having played 10 games. The visitors, Swansea, are top; a single point better off. The KC Stadium is about to host it’s first classic encounter.

City had won 4 of 5 home games that season. The non-win was a thoroughly entertaining 3-3 draw against Cheltenham Town. Darlo were battered 4-1 on the opening day, Boston United beaten 2-1 courtesy of a late, late Stuart Green winner, Southend beaten 3-2 and, the previous Saturday, Kidderminster hammered 6-1. The average attendance for those 5 games was 13,000 and something. So it was something of a surprise when we walked over the bridge from Londesborough Street, saw the KC (still not yet a year old) beautifully lighting up the sky line and wondered who the hell all of hose people were.

The crowd of just short of 21,000 was the largest we’d drawn since the stadium opener against Hartlepool United on Boxing Day 2002. Given that the away end of around 4,000 seats had been allocated entirely to Swansea (who’d brought around 200) it was pretty much a sell out. The kick-off was delayed 15 minutes to get everyone inside and a rumoured 2,000 people were locked outside. The Hull Daily Mail certainly carried letters from super-fans who hadn’t missed a game for years but couldn’t get in.

Swansea were a good side. They had big fat Roger Freestone in goal, big fat Lee trundle up front, little fat Andy Robinson on the wing and Leon Britton in midfield alongside Mark Wilson, ex-Man United and future guest at her majesty’s pleasure if the race fixing allegations are proven. Wilson was on loan from Middlesbrough at the time and had a fine game. As did our own Ian Ashbee. The game was high in quality but with two good defences on display, low on chances. Damien Delaney, who was improving by the week, formed a great partnership with Justin Whittle. It’s a pity Peter Taylor broke it up. Swansea, who kicked us to death, hit the bar and the post while Roger Freestone defied gravity to make several splendid stops.

The previous meeting between the two teams came on the final day of the 2002/03 season at the Vetch Field, the Swans old ground. Swansea had to win to avoid relegation form the football league and prevailed 4-2 against a Tigers side who had nothing to play for and 11 desperate men and a bent referee to play against (Allegedly of course.) City exacted revenge for that defeat and took over at the top of Division Three courtesy of a thumping header from Stuart Elliott midway through the first half. Elliott arrived late in the box and met Andy Dawson’s left winger corner to beat Freestone and send the 20,000+ City fans into rapture. Swans built up a head of steam in the second half but the game ended as a contest when Richard Duffy, a contender for ugliest footballer alive, was sent off for a stupid foul on Elliott. The Tigers completed a league double of Swansea with a 3-2 away win in April and finished 2^nd in Division 3. Swans fell away and ended up 10^th.

Top 10 Goals - #8

Richard Garcia (Hull City 2 Burnley 0 - 04/03/2008)

The Tigers entered March 2008 on the cusp of a play-off place with a game in hand. Burnley, stting one place above City in the Championship table, visited the KC Stadium. With confidence growing throughout the team, City produced a vintage first half performance capped off by this wonder strike from Garcia. The seven goals I've got above this one will take some justifying!

Worst 10 Hull City players in the KC Stadium era

1. Steve Melton
2. Simon Walton
3. Mark Lynch
4. Danny Webb
5. Ibrahima Sonko
6. Mark Yeates
7. Rowan Vine
8. Dele Adebola
9. Robbie Stockdale
10. Manucho

Ten Years At The KC Stadium - #9

In this series of blogs, I'll pick the Top 10 Players, Games and Goals from the 10 years at the KC Stadium and will throw in a variety of top 10 lists and boring facts! This is number two in the series and number nine in the countdown:


Top 10 Players - #9

Jay Jay Okocha

Augustin Azucha Okocha arrived at Hull City in September 2007 at the request of Phil Brown and with the blessing of God. If you asked Phil Brown, he'd tell you they are one and the same. As a result of niggling injuries, the form of the squad in the run-in and a dubious red card against Burnley, he only played 19 games for Hull City and only started 11. Even so, he's probably the most gifted footballer to ever wear the black and amber. Despite being 34 years of age and having spent the previous season "playing" in Qatar, his signing was something of a coup for The Tigers. Okocha had played at the top level in Europe for Frankfurt, Fenerbache and Paris St. Germain, had been to three World Cups with Nigeria and possessed an Olympic Gold Medal and had raised the profile of Bolton Wanderers in his four years with the club, where he worked alongside Phil Brown.

Okocha could do things with a football we'd not seen at the KC Stadium before. Sone Aluko is probably the only player we've had since who even comes close. Okocha lacked the pace of old but still had an eye for a pass, superb set piece delivery and still possessed immense skill. His influence on the pitch probably wasn't as vital as the impression his signing gave out to potential signings and our opponents in the division. That said, there were some vintage performances from Okocha who started the season well and the Tigers lost just 3 of his first 11 appearances including a 1-0 win at Wolves and a 3-1 win at home to Ipswich in which he made goals for Henrik Pedersen and Wayne Brown. His appearances in the second half of the season were rare but he played a vital part in the 2-1 win at West Brom which was the springboard for our promotion push, brilliantly setting up Fraizer Campbell's wonderful opener. His best outing in a Tigers shirt was one of his last. The first 45 minutes against Burnley saw City playing some of the best football we'd seen in modern times, inspired by the magnificent Okocha. Unfortunately, he was sent off in a mad second half, along with Caleb Folan and two Burnley players, and with City charging towards promotion, failed to regain a place in the team.


Top 10 Matches - #9

Hull City 1 Chelsea 1 - 02/02/2010

In the midst of the 2009/10 season, The Tigers took on league leaders Chelsea in a rearranged fixture at the KC Stadium. The original game had been called off due to snow. City were on a run of 10 games without a win and the previous Saturday had drawn 2-2 at home to relegation rivals Wolves in a game they should have won. Dropping 2 points in such a fixture was indicative of a side who'd struggle to stay in the top flight so the Tigers fans didn’t hold out a lot of hope for the visit of the team who led Manchester United by 4 points at the Premier League summit.

Vintage Premier League performances were rare at the KC Stadium. Even in the golden autumn of 2008 when Hull City were setting the top flight on fire, our home form was patchy. This was one of the best. Tom Cairney, who’d made a surprise first league start in the Wolves game, continued in the Tigers midfield alongside the rejuvenated George Boateng who was the man of the match.  Cairney was unfazed by the occasion or the opposition and had a fine game, passing the ball beautifully. City started the game brightly and failed to make the best of numerous corners and set pieces our attacking play earned until the half hour mark.  Stephen Hunt delivered a near post corner onto the head of Steven Mouyokolo, who’d slipped his marker, and the Frenchman planted a header beyond Petr Cech. Chelsea had turned us over 4-0 (league cup) and 3-0 (league) in the previous two seasons so to bag a goal was a turn-up.

City approached half time nervously, unsure whether to try and defend the lead (which would have been fruitless given how poorly we defended all season) or whether to try and find another goal. Chelsea took advantage and breached our defence right on half time. Didier Drogba smashing a wicked free-kick low around the wall and beyond Myhill. If Chelsea expected to push on after the break, they were taken aback by City’s vibrant approach to the game. With Jozy Altidore giving John Terry (who picked up a popular yellow card while trying to stop Altidore; he’d recently been outed as a “love rat” in the red tops) and Ricardo Carvalho a hard time, City were on the front foot. The Tigers back four defended tremendously all night and as the game wore on and City tired, they were forced to work harder to keep Chelsea out. Bo Myhill had a few iffy moments in the game but did his bit to earn a vital point by making tremendous saves from Drogba and Daniel Sturridge.

This was arguably the most impressive home performance of the Tigers Premier League run. There were a few more impressive attacking outings but none featuring more impressive defensive performances. This was also one of only a couple of points City picked up at home against the genuine super-powers of English football at home. It was a great night and one that threatened to turn our season around but never quite managed it.

Top 10 Goals - #9

George Boateng (Hull City 2 Manchester City 1 - 06/02/2010)

Hot on heels of the aforementioned Chelsea game, big spending Manchester City visited the KC Stadium.They were given a spanking by a temporarily rejuvenated Hull City and Phil Brown's last ever win as the Tigers boss was effectively clinched by this beautiful volley from the left boot of George Boateng.

Top 10 Hull City Goalscorers at the KC Stadium

1. Stuart Elliott (33)

2. Nick Barmby (16)

3. Ben Burgess (15)

= Craig Fagan (15)

= Matty Fryatt (15)

6. Danny Allsopp (14)

= Stuart Green (14)

8. Dean Windass (13)

9. Robert Koren (12)

10. Fraizer Campbell (10)