Friday 14 October 2016 11:08, UK
Mike Phelan admits it was a relief to finally put pen to paper on his contract to become the permanent head coach of Hull City.
The 54-year-old was appointed caretaker boss of the Tigers following Steve Bruce's departure in July, but his future has been the subject of much speculation since then.
However, his full-time status was confirmed by the club on Thursday evening and he is now looking forward to the task ahead, with his contract, which runs until the end of the season, giving him control of all football matters, including recruitment.
Phelan told Sky Sports News HQ: "It is a relief because when you have got something hanging there by a thread sometimes - and when you think it's been done and when it's not done - it is a relief to actually sign on the dotted line.
"I would be a liar to say that I didn't have my doubts. It just kept swinging to and fro all the time and it was just, really from my point of view, making sure that all the conditions were in place that could help me push this football club forward, and I feel as though I have got those now.
"It helps within the football club because now it shows that there is somebody at the helm, somebody who wants to get stuck into this job and the players understand who is in charge."
Phelan has the support of the players but he has warned them that they cannot afford to rest on their laurels if they are to retain their place in the Premier League for next season.
"We all know that we have got a job to do and it's a hard job, and this will be a difficult job, trying to get this football club to stay in this Premier League," he added.
"We are under no illusions, that's the aim, that's the course we are going to go on. But we also want to try and change a few things on the football field as far as performances go and as far as team spirit and the collective element of the club."
