Phelan backs Hull’s Keane to return stronger

Mike Phelan is well acquainted with Will Keane and after watching him limp off against Southampton, he is confident that the 23-year-old Hull City forward has the mental resilience to overcome another injury setback.

Keane and Phelan spent several years together at Manchester United and after loan spells at QPR, Sheffield Wednesday, Preston and Wigan, Phelan brought Keane to the KCOM Stadium for £1m in August.

Hull’s tumultuous season continued with a rollercoaster 2-1 win over Southampton on Sunday, and Phelan was left with mixed emotions as the joy of victory was tempered by injuries to Keane and Abel Hernandez.

(Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)

Hernandez left the field after nine minutes with a groin problem, while Keane was off within 30 minutes after what looked like a serious knee injury.

And though Phelan was disappointed with the injuries, he highlighted Keane’s fortitude as a reason to be positive.

“Relief, happiness, concern about the injuries we’ve picked up in the game and the players we’ve got going away on international duty,” Phelan said after game, when reflecting on his emotions.

“Will is one I’ve known for a number of years. He’s always shown real endeavour and potential.

“When he’s got himself to that point when he’s firing and got himself ready, he’s suffered a blow again.

“Sunday’s another one of those days. Sometimes players can handle that because they’ve been through it before and I’m sure he will.”