Jakirovic hails Iroegbunam after midfielder makes first Hull City start

Hull City manager Sergej Jakirovic praised Tim Iroegbunam’s display after the midfielder made his first start for the club in Sunday’s 1-1 draw with Brentford.

Iroegbunam was named in the starting line-up ahead of Matt Crooks and played for 72 minutes before being replaced by Hidemasa Morita.

The English-Nigerian midfielder had previously made four Premier League appearances for Hull, coming on as a substitute in successive matches against Chelsea, Newcastle United, Everton and Fulham.

The former England youth international also played a part in Hull’s opening goal. He was brought down by Aaron Hickey midway through the first half, allowing Oli McBurnie to convert the resulting penalty.

Jakirovic acknowledged that Iroegbunam needed time to settle into the match but was pleased with the way his performance developed before half-time.

“I thought he had a good game although you can see that he is still a little bit rusty, especially early on,” Jakirovic told Hull City’s official webpage.

“He improved as the first half went on and I thought he and Regan Slater had a good game together.

“We have great competition for places in that area. We need them all and they have to be ready when their chance comes.”