Holden delivers crunch verdict on City's early season efforts so far

Dean Holden admits it's been a slow start for Hull City in the Championship, and says there remains plenty to improve on as the Tigers target a first win in four against Southampton today.

- By BARRY COOPER

Holden, who arrived at the MKM Stadium in the summer to join Sergej Jakirovic's new-look coaching setup, is bullish in his belief that City will rise up the table once they find their feet.

Last Saturday's deserved 2-2 draw at Swansea City, having twice come from behind, should see the squad go into their first home outing in almost a month full of confidence, and with some momentum at their backs after suffering successive defeats before the international break.

The Tigers, despite being forced to work under transfer restrictions, have been able to add some real quality to their squad over the summer, which has encouraged Holden.

"I've loved it, loved every second I've been here," Holden told the Mail as he deputised for Jakirovic on pre-match media duties. "As I said then (in conversation with the Mail in Turkey), I got a really early feel for the club, great people behind the scenes, really good squad to work with.

"We've added despite the challenges that we experienced throughout the summer, which have been well documented. I think we've added some real good quality to the squad. It's probably been a slow start in terms of results and lots to improve on, but enjoying working every day with the group.

"We've worked hard to bring this quality to the group. We're all here for one reason, and that's to try and get the club back to where it was only in recent times.

"You've got to remember, it's a wonderful club with a rich history, so it's not always a difficult selling point from that point of view.

"Of course, players coming in want to know our ambitions inside the club. I agree that we've brought some really good players and now it's just about adapting them."

The season is only five league games old, and Jakirovic, coupled with 12 new signings along with some injury setbacks, means City haven't quiet found their rhythm just yet.