Martin Samuelsen transfer 'progressing' as Hull City coach Grant McCann vows not to 'stand in his way'

The League One leaders have loaned Dan Crowley from Birmingham City in this transfer window, which makes it easier for Samuelsen to leave, with interest from Denmark and his native Norway. There will be loan departures too, but they will be designed to expose some of Hull's youngsters to more first-team football.

Samuelsen's hometown club FK Haugesund are thought to be one of those interested, as are five-time Norwegian champions Valerenga.

Samuelsen is making the first steps in his return from a calf injury but the former Manchester City and West Ham United player has only started three league matches under McCann's management, all of them last season.

““I've had a really good chat with Martin and he's a really clued-up kid, he wants to play football and I won't stand in his way,” said McCann.

“I think that's progressing a little bit but nothing concrete from the last time I spoke.”

As well as Crowley, Hull have loaned Gavin Whyte from Cardiff City this month, and signed free agent Jordan Flores.

Billy Chadwick was this month recalled from a short loan spell at Halifax Town, but other youngsters could be given similar opportunities before the transfer window closes on February 1.

“There's been quite a few phonecalls for some of our young boys to go out to League Two or the National League, it's just picking the right place for them where we feel as if they're going to progress in their career,” said McCann.

“We feel as if we've got some really good young kids coming through who will have a big part to play in the future of this football club.”

McCann has reported no fresh injury problems ahead of Saturday's league trip to Portsmouth, but he is considering changes regardless despite an impressive 3-0 win over Accrington Stanley.

“We always pick a team we feel is fresh to go,” said the Northern Irishman. “It's not just that we won 3-0 so we'll go with the same team.

“Sometimes we will, sometimes we won't but we have to make sure players are ready.

“On the injury front, Tom Eaves is still recovering. He's in a boot at this present time, Callum Jones has trained all week, so he's in a better place.

“Everyone's come through the two games this week – the under-23s game and the game against Accrington – well.”

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