EXCLUSIVE: Sergej Jakirovic Discusses Hulls Play Off Push and Manager of the Year Award

The Bosnian manager took charge at Hull following a close escape from dropping into League One, with the teams budget limited by an EFL embargo on transfers.

Even with those obstacles, Jakirovic has transformed his squad into one of the Championships most exciting teams and led them into play off positions, holding a four point lead with four matches remaining.

Through this achievement, the 49 year old has earned a spot on the shortlist for Manager of the Season, joining figures like Frank Lampard, whose Coventry side is dominating the league race.

In a special chat with Flashscore, Jakirovic opens up about the demands of Championship matches and his satisfaction in positioning Hull for an unexpected shot at the Premier League.

Your debut campaign in English football, what are your thoughts on the non stop pace of the Championship?

"I must admit that prior to the season, soon after joining Hull, I spoke with various players and managers who had experienced the Championship, giving me a general idea of what lay ahead.

"Yet, as in all aspects of life, nothing beats personal involvement and learning through direct exposure to apply it effectively.

"It is worth mentioning that, along with my team, I have managed at three outfits that often compete in Europe, handling a schedule of two fixtures weekly, so adjusting and refining our training was straightforward.

"That said, the Championship earns its nickname as the NBA equivalent for good reason. Consider Easter period, for instance. We faced Oxford away on Good Friday, then welcomed Coventry at home by the following Monday.

"There is no room for festivities or dwelling on setbacks, nor for extensive planning. Overall, I believe we have settled in nicely, as our performance on the field indicates."

How has your bond with the club grown throughout the season?

"We connected immediately, no question. For any manager, gaining confidence from the boards top figures is crucial, and that backing has been there right from day one.

"The owner, Mr Acun, pushed for my appointment initially, and as life often shows, you thrive where you feel valued and welcomed.

"Initial discussions were smooth, and we have maintained that approach ever since. We enjoy all required facilities, the supporters appreciate our commitment, drawing around 20,000 to each match, which provides vital extra drive.

"Hull and the Yorkshire region offer a lively setting; visitors are often pleasantly taken aback. Thus, we are content in that regard as well.

"The squad faced a tough spot last year, clinching safety only on the final day. This term, we are achieving remarkable feats, fuelling widespread positivity around the club."

With the play offs in sight as the season nears its end, what would Premier League promotion signify for Hull, particularly after last seasons 21st place finish?

"Indeed, we hold a play off berth with four fixtures left, but securing it demands on field proof. Each upcoming match feels like a decider, and we approach this weekends home clash with Birmingham in that spirit.

"Discussing elevation to the Premier League feels premature, given we have not yet locked in the play offs mathematically, and the challenges there are well known.

"Still, it would cap everyones professional journey, whether through a play off campaign or actual promotion, should it occur. But we stay focused on the present.

"We require those three points this weekend, after which we can assess the standings and calculations for the last three games."

What factors have driven this progress?

"Dedication and faith in our methods have delivered rewards, I reckon. From our opening match in Coventry, ending in a hard fought draw against the leagues leaders, our potential shone through.

"It is key to highlight that, under a transfer ban, we assembled the group hastily. Then injuries struck repeatedly, leaving us to tally fit players before certain games amid the chaos.

"When you hold a unit together amid such trials, fostering a resilient mindset, success inevitably arrives.

"Plus, the supporters and upbeat vibe at the club have sustained us, crafting this inspiring narrative we are part of now."

You expressed pride in your Manager of the Year nomination, to what do you attribute this accomplishment?

"I have said it previously and will gladly reiterate, the credit belongs to all at the club, from players and my assistants to the dedicated staff and local community.

"In the end, it brings immense honour. Sharing the list with icons like Frank Lampard in a fierce division marks a major milestone.

"I am unsure about the awards event itself, but making the final four from numerous managers is a privilege, a source of pride, and a call to build on it moving forward."

How have you managed the tension of chasing a play off place? Your past roles in major tournaments must aid you.

"First, recall that observers viewed us in a survival battle. We committed to tackling each fixture individually and accepting outcomes as they came. Now, here we stand.

"On a personal note, years in management have built extensive know how. As mentioned, avoid over excitement in victories, and extract positives and insights from defeats.

"My core approach to coaching remains consistent, though I evolve with each role. All encounters teach, including the tough ones.

"You learn to navigate fresh scenarios and identify what yields success. Such wisdom is invaluable."