Isaac Hayden says he was flattered that a number of clubs were eager to take him on loan for the second half of the season but made clear he’s focused on staying at Hull until the summer.
The midfielder’s season-long loan at the KC Stadium looked likely to end prematurely earlier this month with the player and Arsene Wenger apparently frustrated by his lack of game time.
Hull manager Steve Bruce was quick to admit the Gunners Academy graduate hadn’t played enough – going so far as to say he’d like to sign the youngster on a permanent deal – and has since given the 20-year-old a run of games.
In the last two weeks, Hayden has started against Brighton in the FA Cup, made a cameo appearance versus Cardiff and even scored his first professional goal in a 6-0 rout over Charlton.
Reflecting on the turnaround, Hayden told Hull’s official website: “From my point of view, I was just a little concerned by my lack of game time and also Arsenal wanted me to be playing a little bit more.
“I was flattered to get a bit of interest from other clubs but it was more speculation than anything concrete. I always remained a Hull player and I came here because I wanted to play for this club.
“I came back to training, worked hard and got the rewards of a good performance against Brighton. I’ve had a lot of conversations with the manager since I’ve been here and he’s always given me the confidence that he wants me here and wants to give me an opportunity.
“I was never worried because I have a positive relationship with the manager and knew exactly where I stood with him.
“I hope I’ll be here come the end of the season. You should never say never but I’m focused on seeing out my loan period here and then reassessing my situation in the summer.
“I’m a level-headed guy and I understand that when the team was on a roll and went so many games unbeaten then you can’t expect to come into the side.
“It’s more difficult when the team loses and you still don’t get a chance but I’m the type of person who would come into training and put in even more work to prove to the manager that I deserve a place.”
Good to hear things have turned around for Hayden and best of luck to him for the rest of the season.
Isaac sounds so down to earth and humble. Hopes he plays more matches and prove to Steve Bruce that he’s not there just to make up the numbers. Praying that he and Chuba can both gain valuable experience from their loans at Hull.
Steve Bruce always did a pretty good Job in developing players and I think Hull is a good place to be for Isaac and Chuba.
I love the character Isaac expresses. Great attitude also, and very Arsenal of old in terms of hard work – makes me think of the late 90s and early 00s team for some reason.
Hope he gains more game time, he has potential to be a very solid footballer for us one day and I’d love to see that potential realised.
Hope he turns out to be the next detroyer type holding midfielder like our very own Le Coq.