‘I leave as a Hull City supporter,’ says outgoing boss Silva

Hull City’s departing manager Marco Silva says he will remain a Tigers fan, despite leaving the club after just four-and-a-half months at the helm.

The announcement came on Thursday night that Silva had turned down the offer of 12 more months with Hull after their relegation to the Championship was confirmed.

Assistant head coach Joao Pedro Sousa, first team coach Goncalo Pedro and goalkeeping coach Hugo Oliveira will depart with the Portuguese manager, leaving the Tigers with the prospect of a difficult recruitment process.

But Silva made it clear he was parting with the club on friendly terms, with his only regret being that he did not come in sooner to help Hull stay in the Premier League.

He said: “It was a thrilling experience as our staff, players and fans came together in a brave effort to stay in the Premier League.

“We all believe that, had we started this journey earlier in the season, we would have achieved what the fans truly deserved, which is to see Hull City retain its Premier League status.

“I would like to thank the club’s chairman, the players and all the team staff, for their effort and support, and I will never forget the way the fans made me feel at home.

“I will remain a supporter of the club.”