New mentality adds momentum
LIAM Rosenior says the way Hull City’s players have changed the mentality of the club’s supporters in recent weeks has added to the growing momentum around the club.
City’s 46-game Championship season came to an end yesterday at Luton Town, with Rosenior able to reflect on a job well done following his arrival in November.
Earlier in his tenure, there was nervousness from some supporters about the style of play, with Rosenior keen for his side to play out from the back, and sometimes, putting the ball at risk, particularly in their own penalty area.
As the weeks have gone on, particularly at the MKM Stadium, City’s style of play has been the source of success with their goal against Swansea City starting with goalkeeper Karl Darlow, before Harry Vaughan’s cross looking for Ozan Tufan was turned into his own net by Ben Cabango.
Rosenior, who praised his side for their performances since he arrived at a club mired in a relegation battle, says the backing from supporters has not only been key in the second half of this season, but also it will be crucial going forwards into the summer and beyond.
“We’ve had our imaginary league table throughout the season. We are eighth in the league since I joined,” Rosenior told the Mail. “I’ve said to the players, I don’t know if we still had a chance in our imaginary table if we could make the top six but that was always the aim.
“It was always our aim together, to finish the season in the top six from when we came together (in November) and we’re close.
“The group I’ve inherited and they’re a fantastic group, if we can just improve the players we’re working with and recruit right in the summer then hopefully, all the signs are (that we can have a good season next time around).
“There’s a real momentum building in the club - it took a while for the fans to enjoy watching our goalkeeper have the ball and play through the lines a little bit, but what’s really great is I’m seeing the fans clap that and applaud it because they’re seeing the benefits of playing that way.
“There’s a positive feel throughout the whole club which I’m delighted to be a part of and hopefully, that carries on through the season.”