The popular forward enjoyed a terrific homecoming on Sunday
05:00, 21 Aug 2025
Joe Gelhardt scored the opener against Oxford United
Joe Gelhardt scored the opener against Oxford United(Image: George Wood/Getty Images)
Joe Gelhardt says Hull City were the only club he wanted to leave Leeds United for during the summer, as he opens up on his move across Yorkshire.
Gelhardt spent the second half of last season on loan at City and played a key role in helping the Tigers stay in the Championship, and he made it clear that he wanted to come back.
That deal was done in the hours before the opening day draw at Coventry City, which saw Gelhardt come off the bench in the latter stages, and he then started the Carabao Cup exit at Wrexham, before making a second home debut on Sunday.
The 23-year-old hit the ground running with a blistering finish inside a minute to set the Tigers on their way to a deserved 3-2 victory over Oxford United on an afternoon to remember at the MKM Stadium.
"I'm buzzing (to be back)," the Liverpudlian told Hull Live. "I wanted to come back here straight away as soon as the season ended. With how much I enjoyed it here last year, it was a no-brainer for me, and I told my agent from the get-go that I wanted to come back here."
Article continues below
Gelhardt did have other interest, once it became clear he would not feature at Elland Road following their promotion to the Premier League, but he says his heart was only ever set on one club, a feeling which delighted Sergej Jakirovic.
He said: "I think I had a few (offers), but as soon as my agent brought them up, I honestly just said no, I just want Hull again, so just try your best to make that happen, and he did so, to his credit."
Former boss Ruben Selles was keen to see Gelhardt back at the MKM Stadium, and after studying his performances, Jakirovic made it clear to Acun Ilicali that he wanted to get a deal done, if possible.
Article continues below
"I heard the interest was there, my agent told me, and I'd spoken to the lads about the new manager, and they spoke very highly of him, so yeah, it was still a no-brainer for me to come here," Gelhardt continued. "I watched a few of the pre-season games and there were good results. I like the way they played against Sunderland, who are Premier League opposition now. I still knew it was just Hull.
"I think in general I think we've got a strong team in all areas of the pitch, considering the circumstances with the transfers. I think we've made some brilliant transfers in Oli (McBurnie), Lunny (John Lundstram), and Joel (Ndala). I can't think of all of them right now, but I think everyone's been brilliant. We've got a strong squad now, so let's just see what we can do. I want to play the next game already. Well, not now because I'm a bit tired, but maybe in a few days."
Here at Hull Live , we are dedicated to bringing you the best Hull City coverage and analysis. Make sure you don't miss out on the latest City news by joining our free WhatsApp group. You can get all the breaking news and best analysis sent straight to your phone by clicking here to subscribe. You can also subscribe to our free newsletter service. Click here to be sent all the day's biggest stories.