'˜Takeover, takeover, takeover' ... Mike Phelan no nearer to agreement with Hull City on permanent position

The Tigers head to Liverpool tomorrow with Steve Bruce’s former assistant still in temporary charge after more than nine weeks in the role.

Phelan believed ahead of last weekend’s defeat to Arsenal that an agreement was close but he revealed this morning that there had been no further progress in the past five days.

“This time last week I was saying I was looking through all the details of my contract,” said Phelan. “That’s been done and I have had a conversation (on Sunday) with the owners which was very positive, very good.

“Since then I have heard nothing. It’s just a case of let’s wait and see. When we get down to talking again I am sure things will develop.

“I am happy with the discussions I have had. It has been very good, detailed. A lot of it rests on the position of the football club. It seems to be that all I keep hearing is takeover, takeover, takeover. The outcomes will come out of that. I am waiting for answers and once we get them we can move on.”

Pressed on why there had been another delay, Phelan added: “It is difficult for me to comment simply because I don’t know the whole issues going on outside of the football side of things.

“Takeovers can be confusing, with rumours and all sorts going on. Really I am just staying focused on my players. They’re the most important thing at this club.

“Supporters want answers and I am sure they’ll get them in time. I want to know what the position is from my point of view but I am still here doing the job I was asked to do. It’ll be up to others to make those decisions. I want it resolved, but it is not my decision.”