Crooks relishing big reunion with ‘home’ club Boro

MATT Crooks admits there'll be added emotion to tonight's clash between Hull City and Middlesbrough - with the former Boro favourite coming up against his ex-club for the first time.

- By CRAIG JOHNS

Matt Crooks is looking forward to reuniting with Riley McGree (right) and his other former Boro team-mates tonight

Crooks established himself as a firm fan-favourite at the Riverside during a three-and-a-half-year stay spell at Boro. That ended in February 2024 when he completed a move to MLS side Real Salt Lake.

But just 12 months later, the versatile midfielder took an opportunity to return to the Championship with Hull City. He then played a vital role in helping them avoid relegation last term, scoring the goal which kept them in the second tier.

Now still an important player in a rejuvenated Tigers side who sit just outside the top six, Crooks is looking forward to a game against a side who he still has great emotional attachment to.