'Killed us' - Hull City ace admits double injury blow contributed to the Tigers struggles
Regan Slater admits losing Liam Millar and Mohamed Belloumi has had a major impact on Hull City's season and contributed to their struggles.
Both Millar and Belloumi were big financial outlays in the summer and were viewed as really exciting signings, but both suffered season-ending ACL injuries in what was a cruel blow to City, and the players themselves.
Though City were struggling earlier in the season when the Canadian and Algerian were available, their respective losses have been keenly felt, especially for new head coach Ruben Selles, who is unable to call upon to attacking wingers, ones that would be so influential in his system.
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With the pair now recovering and beginning their long journey of rehab after going under the knife before Christmas, Selles and the remaining dressing room are going about piecing City's season back together, helped by three away wins on the spin, including last Friday night's statement win at Sheffield United and a flurry of new arrivals.
Four wins in 10 league games under Selles, including a morale-boosting 3-3 draw with leaders Leeds United, has lifted spirits and generated belief that the Tigers can complete a salvage act this term and get themselves into a good position for when their two-star men return next term.
"I think we've been unlucky this season regarding, like, the two injuries to Mo and Liam," Slater explained. "They were two key players for us, and they were playing most games at the time, and obviously, they've both got nasty injuries. It's never nice at all, and it's not their fault, but it has killed us really. They are two key players that we've been without."
Millar has remained in Hull, and even before his surgery was at the training ground and watched home games at the MKM Stadium, but post-surgery, is carrying out his rehab at the training ground and remains a familiar face, while Belloumi has been in Dubai.
Slater says having the bubbly Canadian international around the training ground is good for morale, while he has exchanged messages with Belloumi in a bid to keep him involved.
"Yes, with Liam. Liam's in (around the training ground). I spoke to Mo around Christmastime as well," he continued. "He's off doing his own rehab but Liam's in. He's a great guy and he's good to have around; he's always chirpy and what have you. He's obviously gutted. The injury which he's got means he's out for the period that he is. It's just not a nice one for anyone, is it?"