Hull City boss Sergej Jakirovic says he welcomes the “selection headache” that Toby Collyer’s arrival will bring as the Tigers push for promotion in the final weeks of the season.
The midfielder’s move from Manchester United is expected to be completed in the coming days, with Collyer set to attend Hull’s home clash against Swansea City on Saturday, following back-to-back away wins at Southampton and Preston North End.
Once Collyer joins, Jakirovic will face a squad management challenge: Hull will have six loan players, but EFL rules permit only five in a matchday squad.
The current loan contingent includes Joe Gelhardt, John Lundstram, Amir Hadziahmetovic, Joel Ndala, and Yu Hirakawa, who impressed with a goal assist on his debut at Deepdale on Tuesday. Lundstram has struggled with injuries this season, returning just last weekend, while Gelhardt came back from an eight-game absence midweek.
Jakirovic explained how he plans to manage the situation: “It’s always about who can help the team, based on performance, form, and who is playing better.
There are also tactical considerations — who fits our plan for that match. I can say all are important, but sometimes you have to make a choice. This is a good problem to have.”
Meanwhile, permanent signings Paddy McNair and Kieran Dowell are expected to join soon, but these additions will not affect Hull’s loan numbers.
Jakirovic also confirmed there are no imminent departures after Kasey Palmer’s loan move to Luton Town, adding: “Right now, no. We have 12 days left in the window, so we will see.”
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