The Tigers chief has been speaking about Belloumi and teenagr Cathal McCarthy
Hull City head coach Sergej Jakirovic admits he needs to proceed with caution as he looks to integrate Mohamed Belloumi back into Championship action.
Belloumi made his City return after a lengthy spell out with that serious knee injury he picked up on Bonfire Night late on against Blackburn Rovers on Saturday, playing the final 10 minutes or so on what was an otherwise forgettable afternoon.
In that short cameo, the Algerian winger looked bright and confident, but Jakirovic is acutely aware of the dangers posed by players returning after long, long spells out with knee problems.
“Of course. For sure, he can improve our group a lot. It’s very important for him. I wanted to make sure that he felt good on the pitch after almost nine-and-a-half months,” Jakirovic told Hull Live.
“This is good for us, and he will be better and better for sure. He wanted to play three weeks ago, so I need to stop him. Yes, this is his wish, but we must be smart with him.”
Teenager Cathal McCarthy also made his senior first team debut at the heart of the back four alongside John Egan, owing to Semi Ajayi, Akin Famewo and Charlie Hughes’ absence.
Though it was a tough baptism of fire for the 18-year-old Irishman, Jakirovic says McCarthy deserved his chance after an impressive pre-season following his move from University College Dublin, and believes he will be better for the experience.
“First of all, he deserves this because of his pre-season,” the Croatian explained. “He played mostly as number six, and he can play because he understands football very well.
“Second, we didn’t have any other options in the centre of defence with experienced guys, but no matter what, I’m satisfied with him because he will grow and grow because this was his first official game. He just needs to work hard and everything will be good for him.”
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