Hull appoint former Russia boss Slutsky

Hull City head coach Leonid Slutsky

Former Russia coach Leonid Slutsky has been appointed as the new head coach of Hull City as the relegated Tigers look to plot their way back to the Premier League.

Marco Silva was unable to save Hull from the drop into the Championship at the end of 2016-17 and the Portuguese stepped down last month, before joining Watford.

Hull had been linked with former Leeds United boss Garry Monk but it is Slutsky who they have chosen - subject to international clearance - to lead their charge back to the top flight despite no experience outside his native Russia.

The 46-year-old has enjoyed plenty of success in his managerial career, lifting three league titles and two Russian Cups with CSKA Moscow.

He oversaw 13 matches as Russia coach - a role he held alongside his CSKA position - but resigned after Euro 2016 following his nation's group-stage exit.

Slutsky left CSKA in December and has now turned his attention to getting Hull out of the Championship.

| We are delighted to confirm the appointment of Leonid Slutsky as our new Head Coach #WelcomeLeonid  pic.twitter.com/3UxPRWxsl1

— Hull City (@HullCity) June 9, 2017

"I am delighted to become the head coach of Hull City and I am very much looking forward to the challenge of guiding the club back to the Premier League," he told the club's official website.

"I already know that this is an important club with a big and loyal fanbase, I've had a good feeling about it ever since meeting the Allam family and I can't wait to get started."

Vice-chairman Ehab Allam is confident Slutsky is the right man to turn Hull's fortunes around after a year of disappointment.

"I am delighted to welcome Leonid as our new head coach," he said. "After a thorough recruitment process, Leonid's attention to detail, thoughts on playing style and his ambition made him the stand-out candidate.

"The club has made plans for pre-season training and friendlies, with some exciting fixtures to be announced next week, and squad planning with Leonid is already underway. 

"Leonid has enjoyed success at both club and international level and I am excited about his plans for guiding us back towards the Premier League."