Joseph typifies what was good about City team

KYLE CAN BE PROUD OF HIS EFFORTS

- By BARRY COOPER

Kyle Joseph embodied everything that was good about Hull City last season, and his departure is the first sign that the Tigers are transforming in their preparations for the Premier League.

There were so many success stories, so many tales of recovery or redemption, but few as impressive as Joseph, who emerged as one of the most popular figures on the terraces, for his work-rate and discipline in doing the job he was asked to do.

Signed from Blackpool in January 2025, with City languishing in the battle to survive relegation from the Championship for £2.5m, Joseph struggled as his side carried about as much threat in front of goal as a dead slug.

Arriving with the legendary Steve Bruce's blessing, the 24-year-old was battling an ankle problem.

In a bid to play his part in their survival bid, Joseph played through the pain barrier and held off surgery until the summer, though he kept that a secret, which is the measure of a character keen not to make excuses.

Without a goal in the 16 games from his arrival to the end of the campaign, many had written Joseph off.