Pundit Joe Cole has triggered outrage among Hull City supporters after claiming the newly promoted club is already relegated from the Premier League.
The former Chelsea and England midfielder made the comments on The Dressing Room Podcast alongside former West Ham United team-mate Carlton Cole. When asked by his co-host who would be going down this season, Cole stated that "Hull are gone, man" before claiming that the Tigers had arrived in the Premier League "through the back door." He then added that he had "a confession to make," claiming he was contacted by TNT Sports who "tried to slip in Hull on the first day of the season." Cole claimed he put his phone on "Do Not Disturb" to ensure he would not be working as a pundit for the network.
Daily Mail Sport understands that executives at TNT Sports were left bemused by Cole's comments. Insiders at the television network confirmed that Cole was not down to cover the opening fixture at the MKM Stadium, and never had been.
Backlash from supporters and club owner
The comments triggered a passionate reaction across East Yorkshire. Fans took to social media to highlight what they described as a "condescending" and "disrespectful" attitude from the former international, with some supporters arguing the newly-promoted club should ban Cole from entering its stadium. Inside the club, sources disclosed that players and coaching staff under manager Jakirovic are fully aware of what was said and intend to use the criticism as motivation for what promises to be a demanding season.
Hull owner Acun Ilicali, the Turkish media mogul who acquired the club in 2022, publicly responded to the podcast remarks on social media. Ilicali defended the city and pointed out that the club earned its place in the top tier by winning the Championship play-off final.
Ilicali wrote: "It is disappointing to see my beautiful city criticised by people who should know better. As a club we are used to being underestimated and we enjoy it, and we enjoyed it more when were promoted last season. The true beauty of a place is in its people, and that’s why, for me, Hull is one of the most beautiful places in the world. For me, seeing two ex-players making fun of a deservedly promoted club, is more laughable than the things they were laughing at."
Premier League return and fixture opening
TNT Sports is one of the primary Premier League broadcasters in the United Kingdom. Cole, who earned 56 caps for England and won three Premier League titles during his time at Chelsea, works regularly as a television analyst alongside former West Ham striker Carlton Cole. Hull City, nicknamed the Tigers, return to the Premier League after securing promotion through the Championship play-offs at Wembley Stadium.
Hull City open their Premier League season tomorrow night when they host Manchester United at the MKM Stadium in Kingston upon Hull.
