Mike Phelan – Hull City
Hull City manager Mike Phelan has experienced a wild ride over the past year. Brought on as an assistant coach in early 2015, the resignation of Steve Bruce saw Phelan step into a caretaker role with the Tigers in the Premier League this season.
The Lancashire native spent over a decade under Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United and was an integral part of both the reserves and the academy. Two years at Norwich City eventually led him to the KC Stadium.
Phelan brings a strong work ethic and a disciplined approach to the game. His squads are focused on strong defensive work and a rapid transition into the attack. With players like Adama Diomande and Abel Hernandez at Hull, these tactics can be quite successful.
The current season saw Phelan capture Manager of the Month honours for August with a fantastic opening to the season, as a 2-0-1 start to the campaign featured an impressive victory over title-holders Leicester City.
But that’s where the difficulties began. Only one victory since that strong August have Hull in the relegation zone and struggling to find their form. The January transfer window may be a key time for the front office to improve their chances of staying in the Premier League.
Motivation may come from the club’s first-ever appearance in the semi-finals of the EFL Cup, after a victory over Newcastle United on penalties. A two-leg series against Manchester United awaits in early 2017 for Mike Phelan.