Manchester United U21 boss Warren Joyce 'in line for sensational Hull City return with Mike Phelan'

Warren Joyce could be in line for a sensational return to Hull City as head coach Mike Phelan plots to raid his former team Manchester United.

Phelan, former number two to United great Sir Alex Ferguson, knows Joyce well as the latter continues his work as the Reds' under-21s manager.

After Stephen Clemence's exit to join ex-City boss Steve Bruce at Aston Villa, Tigers head coach Phelan now wants an experienced assistant and sees Joyce as that man, according to reports.

Going onto play 170 games for the Tigers from 1996 to 2000, ex-skipper Joyce soon became City's caretaker coach two years into his stay at Boothferry Park, following the departure of Mark Hateley.

Staging a remarkable turnaround in the face of financial ruin, 'City's Great Escape' in the 1998/99 campaign was complete under Joyce's leadership.

Bruce was also interested in bringing Joyce to the Midlands, but remaining in the Premier League is more appealing to the 51-year-old.

The fact Phelan currently only has a short-term deal until the end of the season may not prove an attraction for Joyce or any number two.

The City head coach was asked about the possibility of Joyce joining his staff last week. This is what he had to say.

"I know Warren and I've known him for many years," said Phelan. "I know the qualities of Warren but he's working at a huge football club and producing some terrific young footballers. We've just taken two from him with the potential to do really well.

"He's a guy that's in work and that's a difficult situation. There's lots of good people out there who want to work and are willing to work.

"The Premier League would be a massive option for them."

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