The two influential performers were superb in taking apart Millwall at The Den
Sergej Jakirovic admits the return to fitness of Mo Belloumi and Liam Millar has completely changed the landscape at Hull City, after the two wing-wizards delivered fine displays to help the Tigers win 3-1 at Millwall on Saturday.
It was the first time in 416 days that any Tigers manager was able to name the pair on the same teamsheet for a Championship game, and their value was shown inside the opening 13 minutes in devastating style.
Belloumi carved out the opening goal for Kyle Joseph after just six minutes before Millar laid his cross on a plate for the in-form striker to tap home seven minutes later and double their lead.
Algerian star Belloumi was superb in the first period after being given a second consecutive start, terrorising Zak Sturge, who was withdrawn at the break with a bout of dizziness.
Millar came off on the hour after narrowly escaping a second yellow card, while Belloumi was also taken off, with the pair given welcome rests, having only just recovered from hamstring injuries coming quickly on the back of their respective returns from ACL surgery.
“We’re speaking all the time about that,” Jakirovic said of the importance of the two wingers. “Also, Kyle (Joseph) is there, Enis Destan is there, Oli McBurnie is there; everyone can score the goals, but with these two guys, they are different.
“They are completely different on the ball, without the ball, very quick, so it’s great to have them back on the pitch. We also have a few options on the bench, so now it’s a completely different picture.”
Both Millar and Belloumi will be hoping to continue their comebacks on Saturday when City host West Brom at the MKM Stadium in their final outing before Christmas.
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