The Tigers’ star winger is nearing a welcome return to first team action
Sergej Jakirovic says watching Mohamed Belloumi in training gives him “goosebumps” as he prepares to welcome him back to the Hull City matchday fold.
Belloumi has made terrific progress in his recovery from a season-ending ACL injury he picked up late on in the defeat at Oxford United on November 5 last year.
His loss last term was hugely significant, but City could have their Algerian wing-wizard back in the squad to face Blackburn Rovers on Saturday lunchtime, which must be considered a major boost.
The 23-year-old’s return is particularly timely, coming on the back of a dramatic first home win of the season last Sunday and after the club were given disappointing news about their appeal against a three-window ban on buying players.
While it will take him time to get up to speed after such a long period out, his return hands the Bosnian a major dilemma in the coming weeks, with Liam Millar expected to return next month, joining Joel Ndala, David Akintola and Abu Kamara, though he could yet leave before the window closes.
Jakirovic admits that he winces every time he sees Bellloumi come up against a challenge in training, but trusts the medical staff and the player himself have made the right decision in allowing him back in full training.
“He’s the decision maker,” Jakirovic told Hull Live about Belloumi knowing his body and how hard to push himself. “Always when he receives the ball, whoever is in front of him, I think, be careful, be careful, don’t touch him.
“He has a very big desire to play, which is normal. I’m listening to our medical stuff, so I’m not going through the wall (not listening). I’m listening to our medical staff.
“He’s different. Completely different from the others. Yes, (it gives me) goosebumps. When he receives the ball and goes forward, he drives with the ball; it’s different. One against one, he has a great shot left to right. He has everything. I’m buzzing (to have him back). Yes, this is a great word buzzing.”
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