Livermore displays his loyalty to Tigers’ cause

The midfielder joined the Tigers on loan last summer, but a clause was inserted into the deal that the North London club could recall him if needed in January.

That became a distinct possibility in the final 48 hours of last month’s transfer window when stories began to emerge in the London press about Livermore being recalled by Tim Sherwood who, since Livermore had left White Hart Lane in August, had replaced Andre Villas-Boas as manager.

Hull fans were understandably worried such a late recall would have seriously weakened their midfield.

They need not have been concerned since Livermore was so keen to remain at the KC Stadium until the end of his season-long loan that he took matters into his own hands.

“I was laying in bed and didn’t think too much of it (the newspaper speculation),” said Livermore, ahead of Monday night’s FA Cup fifth-round tie at Brighton.

“As far as I knew, I was going to be here until the end of the season. But then, all of a sudden, my phone started going mad.

“I spoke to people at both clubs and just stressed that I wanted to stay here and play football.

“I think within that, Tottenham allowed me to stay until the end of the season. With what I said to Tottenham, it obviously became apparent it was the best for all three parties for me to stay.”

Livermore has been an integral part of the Hull midfield. He has made 25 appearances and formed a hugely impressive partnership with former Tottenham team-mate Tom Huddlestone.

Whether the 24-year-old will be allowed to remain beyond the end of the season remains to be seen.

Manager Steve Bruce is keen to buy him, but admits any deal would be dependent on Hull staying up.

Sherwood, however, is understood to want to have a closer look at Livermore in pre-season before making a decision. The loanee said: “Long term, I love the squad here, I love everything around here. The gaffer’s great, I like the way we try to play football.

“Plus, it’s a big statement with the players that he has signed. To go and spend that money to bring in that sort of quality it proves which way he wants us to go.

“For any young player signing that’s a massive boost. It is just great to be playing. I was in and out at Tottenham and it’s not a nice feeling when managers don’t come and talk to you and tell you what you’re doing wrong or why you don’t get the chance you feel you should be given.”