Bullard closes in on return

Hull midfielder Jimmy Bullard has been pencilled in to make his long-awaited return from injury next week.

Bullard has played just 37 minutes for the Tigers since signing in January due to a serious knee injury.

The 30-year-old is back in full training and boss Phil Brown is hoping he can get a run-out in next week’s reserve clash with Bolton – and then make his first-team return against former club Fulham on October 19.

“The plan of attack with Jimmy will mean his comeback game will probably be against Bolton in the reserves next Tuesday at North Ferriby,” Brown told the Hull Daily Mail.

“Hopefully, one or two supporters will get the chance to see him in a Hull City strip and fingers crossed, we’ll see where that takes us.

“We’ll have the game against Bolton and then a game against opposition behind closed doors the following week before he can then play some part in the Fulham game.

“We’ll have to be patient with him and understand that it might take three, four or five games before we see his best.

“But I’m hopeful of the fact Jimmy can come in and play a big part in a big season for us.”

The return of Bullard will provide a boost for Brown as pressure grows on him following their poor start to the season.