After a rollercoaster start to pre-season, Steve Bruce has resigned from his post as Hull City manager after four years in charge.
A circle of speculation draws to a close
The news comes after numerous moments of speculation surrounding the former Manchester United defender's job in the last few months. After gaining promotion with a playoff final victory against Sheffield Wednesday in May, Bruce announced that he may not stay at the club, amid suggestions that the club was up for sale. That period was followed with a return to pre-season where the manager dismissed reports that he could be leaving by claiming it was "business as usual" at the Yorkshire club.
Just a handful of days into their early summer tour of Portugal, Bruce was linked with the vacant England role. He suggested interest in the role, claiming it to be the "pinnacle", prompting further speculation about his future. After it became clear that Sam Allardyce had been offered the role this week, Hull looked ready to settle back into preparations for their return to the Premier League. With several key players already picking up injuries, owner Assed Allam put takeover talks on hold to concentrate on making signings for the club. Yet on Friday Bruce did not take training before an announcement was made on Friday afternoon about his resignation.
An emotional journey
Bruce has enjoyed and endured a rollercoaster spell at Hull City, mirrored by the events of the last two months. In his debut season back in 2012-13, he led Hull to promotion from the Championship when they finished second. The following season they cemented their place in the top tier of English football by finishing 16th, whilst also reaching an FA Cup final where they eventually lost to Arsenal after holding a two goal lead. Such a season was not to be replicated in 2014-15 as Hull were relegated back to the Championship. Yet last season the Tigers bounced straight back after defeating Sheffield Wednesday in the playoff final.
Former Manchester United teammate Roy Keane has been tipped to take over at the KCOM stadium, whilst reports suggest Bruce has already been lined up to replaced Sam Allardyce at Sunderland. For Hull City, surely their pre-season preparations can only get better?