‘Thanks for the memories’: McCann says fond farewell to ‘special’ club

‘HEARTFELT THANK YOU’: Grant McCann has paid tribute to the club. Picture credit: Hull City

Ex-Hull City boss Grant McCann has paid a warm tribute to the club and its fans, a day after being ousted by new owner Acun Ilicali.

The former head coach was relieved of his duties on Tuesday after two-and-a-half years at the club, during which City were crowned League One champions - the club’s first league title in 55 years.

In a statement released through the League Managers’ Association today, McCann said: “I would like to thank everyone at Hull City. I have had an amazing time and have learned so much in my two and a half years at the football club.

“Winning the League One title and receiving the manager of the year award last season was a huge honour, and I am proud of how the team has adapted to the Championship this season.

“We have been on a fantastic run over the past 12 games, earning 20 points and sitting 7th in the form table. I am confident the team can build on this form and finish the season well.

“It is a special football club and I would like to thank the Allam family [former owners] for showing complete faith in me during our journey. I wish them all well for the future.

“To the players, staff, and fans, I thank you with all my heart. Through the good and the bad, we stuck together as one big family.

“Best wishes to Acun Ilıcalı on his new adventure and I hope there is lots of success for Hull City and its fans moving forward.

“Up the Tigers.”

City said yesterday they expected to announce McCann’s replacement “very shortly”.