Tigers coach keen to deploy Leeds loanee Gelhardt in more central role

Hull City manager Sergej Jakirovic is keen to deploy Joe Gelhardt in a more central role as the Leeds United loanee gets a chance to play in his most natural position.

- by Kyle Newbould

Gelhardt returned to Hull for a season-long loan spell last week, having impressed during a six-month stint at the end of the 2024/25 campaign.

Under former boss Ruben Selles, the 23-year-old scored five goals in 20 Championship appearances, enough for incoming head coach Jakirovic to push for his resigning.

Most of that attacking output came from out wide and while Gelhardt's second debut against Coventry City on Saturday was as a right-winger, his best position has always been seen as in behind a more natural No 9.

The stocky forward's ability to squeeze out of tight spaces is a strength suited to playing centrally but circumstance has pushed him out of position in recent years.