Time on sidelines proves beneficial for new Hull City head coach Nigel Adkins

The 52-year-old has become the club’s fifth boss in 17 months after agreeing an 18-month deal and will take charge of the Tigers for the first time in Saturday’s Championship game with Brentford.

Adkins, who came close to landing the Tigers post in the summer and who also revealed that he turned down the chance to be director of football at the club last year, will be assisted by long-time number two Andy Crosby and Tony Pennock will be first team coach.

Adkins, who left his last position at Sheffield United in May 2016, said: “I had a good conversation with the owner until late last night and obviously after the manager left, there was a decision to be made by the present owner.

“We had a conversation. I have known Ehab (Allam) for a fair bit and he has obviously decided to make a change and he gave me a phone call and we ended up having a conversation and here I am.

“From my point of view, I have been in football since I was 16. I had gone in with a idea when we went to Sheffield United and it didn’t work out for us and I thought it was important for me to take a little bit of time out to reflect on what happened.

“I have enjoyed my time and utilised it very much. I have been offered a lot of jobs and am very thankful for that and it has been good to meet several owners and listen to them.”