Whittle Told to Fight For His Place

Last updated : 19 June 2002 By Andy Beill
Whittle has captained City for over three years, but with Greg Strong and John Anderson signing there is strong competition for the two centre back spots.

However, manager Jan Molby says that if the 31-year-old impresses in pre-season then there is a good chance he will be in the starting line-up against Southend on the opening day of the season.

Molby told the Hull Daily Mail: "There's no way I want Justin Whittle to leave the club.
"Yes, we have signed two players who occupy the same position in the side but Justin is still the club captain. I'll be looking for him to lead the way, roll up his sleeves and show his real character in the pre-season build-up.
"I want him to go out and make it impossible for me to leave him out of the team. Justin is more than capable of doing that and I can assure him nothing has been decided yet in terms of who plays where."

He added: "I know what he can do and he's too good a player to just leave on the sidelines every week."

Meanwhile Mike Edwards' future also looks to be at Hull City. Division 3 rivals Oxford United were rumoured to have made a bid for the 21-year-old, but recently signed Oldham right-back Scott McNiven, suggesting an end to their interest in Edwards.