Former Chelsea and England player Joe Cole has ignited a strong reaction from Hull City supporters following comments made on a podcast, where he suggested the club has entered the Premier League "through the back door" and is destined for relegation.
Cole, speaking with ex-teammate Carlton Cole, stated, "Hull are gone, man" when discussing potential relegations this season. He further elaborated on his perception of the club's promotion, asserting they arrived in the top flight via an indirect route.
Adding to the controversy, Cole recounted an anecdote about being contacted by TNT Sports to cover Hull City's opening Premier League match against Manchester United. He claimed to have intentionally placed his phone on "do not disturb" to avoid being assigned to the broadcast. "I put my phone on Do Not Disturb," he said, explaining his decision to sidestep the assignment.
However, sources at TNT Sports have reportedly expressed bewilderment regarding Cole's claims. Insiders indicated that Cole was not scheduled to work the Hull City vs. Manchester United season opener, nor had he ever been confirmed for that specific fixture. The network bosses were left "were left bemused" by the pundit's statements.
These remarks have circulated widely among Hull City players and staff, who are reportedly using the comments as motivation. Fans have taken to social media, describing Cole's attitude as "condescending" and "disrespectful." Some have even called for the newly promoted club, which secured its place in the Premier League through the Championship play-off final, to ban Cole from its stadium.