Exclusive:'He's clearly capable' - Hull City's Oli McBurnie backed to fend off rivals despite Premier League blanks
Hull City’s Oli McBurnie has received the backing of a former Tigers forward and manager
Former Hull City manager Mark Hateley has backed Oli McBurnie to fend off teammates vying for his spot in the Tigers side.
An instrumental figure in Hull’s promotion-winning Championship campaign, McBurnie registered 19 goals across all competitions last season.
He has started each of Hull’s five Premier League games this term but the 30-year-old is yet to open his account.
Mark Hateley on Oli McBurnie
Hull bolstered their attack in the summer transfer window, although Hateley does not believe McBurnie is under threat.
He told The Yorkshire Post via NetBet Sport: “I don't really [think his position is under threat]. Oli's a good guy to have around, good in the dressing room, a real character.
“He'll score goals, and if he doesn't, he'll worry defenders, he'll draw two defenders and release one of his own players.
“As long as he's playing well and bringing something to the team, which he will because he's a trier, he'll remain in the side, and his goals will start coming because he's clearly capable of scoring.
“As other attention is drawn to other players, he'll get a bit more space, and the hard work he's been doing will come to fruition.”
Scotland return
McBurnie is currently on international duty with Scotland having finally forced his way back into the Tartan Army set-up.
He was exiled in the final years of Steve Clarke’s reign but landed a spot in the first squad named by his successor Sébastien Pocognoli. His first appearance in over five years was made at the weekend as Scotland played out a goalless draw with Slovenia.
Hateley said: “He'd have been bitterly disappointed to miss out on the World Cup in the summer after what was it, 19 goals and eight assists? I couldn't understand that omission.”