Elabdellaoui links up with old friend at Hull

Having an old friend by your side can make adapting to life in a different country slightly easier – at least that’s what Hull City’s new signing Omar Elabdellaoui is hoping.

The Norwegian right-back has joined Hull on-loan until the end of the season from Greek giants Olympiakos.

He trained with his new side for the first time on Friday and one of his team-mates is childhood friend, and fellow Norway international, Adama Diomande.

Another of his countryman, Markus Henriksen, is also with the Tigers and Elabdellaoui is convinced the duo can help him settle into life in East Yorkshire.

“I know them both well, but especially Adama because we grew up in the same city,” explained Elabdellaoui.

“We played football together when we were younger. I spoke to him before coming here and obviously I’ve spoken to both he and Markus since arriving.

“It’s always nice to have familiar faces around when you go somewhere new.”

Photo credit: Getty Images

These days you can hardly move for Hull players praising the work already done by new manager Marco Silva and Elabdellaoui has joined the fawning crowd.

The 25-year-old worked with the Portuguese during his time in charge at Olympiakos and claims the 39-year-old was a big reason he now finds himself at the KCOM Stadium.

“I’m really looking forward to playing under Marco Silva again,” added Elabdellaoui.

“We had a really big season together last year with Olympiakos and I know the type of coach that he is. He is a big reason why I wanted to come here.

“I have learnt a lot from him in the past and I know that I will improve and learn a lot more from him in the next few months here.

“Finishing the season with him here is something I am really looking forward to. This is a big move for me and one that I am really happy to make.”