Hull City’s record signing Jimmy Bullard is hoping his move to the KC Stadium will boost his chances of breaking into the England squad.
The 30-year-old, signed for £5million from Fulham, was unveiled with his number 33 shirt ahead of the Tigers’ FA Cup clash with Millwall and vowed to put himself firmly in England manager Fabio Capello’s thoughts.
After being described by Hull City chairman Paul Duffen as “one of the top three midfielders in the country,” Bullard said: “I have come to Hull to improve my football and to make me a better player. If I do well then hopefully I can get into the England squad.”
The former Wigan star revealed the decision to move to Hull was an easy and quick one to make after City boss Phil Brown moved in for the midfielder.
“I knew after 10 minutes of talking to Phil Brown that I wanted to come here. It is the right place for me and I’m happy to be here.”
Brown was also delighted to land his man. “It is a great day for Hull City. The commitment the chairman has shown to the club and to staying in the Premier League is first class.
“Jimmy’s ambitions match ours and it is a fabulous day for me.”
The Tigers boss admitted Bullard’s attitude was one of the key reasons behind the club’s willingness to offer the midfielder a four-and-a-half year deal.
“Jimmy Bullard brings a simplicity to his play which is refreshing. He just wants to play football and plays with a smile on his face. He has an impish, boyish attitude to the game and if he can put a smile on my face he will bring some joy back to football.”
The former Fulham midfielder said he had little option but to quit Craven Cottage over the club’s unwillingness to extend his deal.
“I was in a difficult position with Fulham. I had 18 months on my contract and the club were not willing to offer me any sort of new contract and that I could leave in January.
“I gave 100 per cent for Fulham and I have lots of great friends there. The fans were brilliant to me throughout my injury.
“I was a little surprised Fulham let me go but I enjoyed my time there.”
The 30-year-old admitted he was pleased to learn the Tigers’ ambitions matched his own.
“I am confident I can do a job and that is why I am here. I am ambitious and it is great to join a club that is moving forward. It is perfect for me.”
Brown was more than happy to spell out the club’s plans for the future to his new recruit before he put pen to paper.
“He wanted to know who else was coming to Hull City. While I would not go into specifics I told him we are always looking to improve the club,” he said.
While Bullard was available for the Millwall clash, Brown revealed he was not considered due to lack of match fitness. His likely Tigers debut will be in the visit to West Ham United on Wednesday
