Hull boss Phil Brown can only take positive feedback from the Tigers failed pursuit of England international Michael Owen. Brown was quietly confident a deal could be brokered; however, his hopes were dashed when Premier League champions Manchester United agreed a two-year deal for the free agent.

"We had hoped to meet with Michael before we went to Italy but when you're up against Manchester United, you know you're on the back-foot," he told the Hull Daily Mail.

"To be in a two-horse race with Manchester United for an England international gives me great pride.

"He was ready to consider coming to Hull City but he has joined the champions of England. You can't argue with that but for me it was positive to see us in the running."