It's safe to say that it's not been the loan spell that Matthew Pennington would have originally hoped for with Hull City this season as he looks to further his development away from Everton. 

It has recently been reported by Football Insider that the defender is set to push for a return to Everton in the New Year, after a lack of game time with the Tigers.

Pennington could cut a frustrated figure at the KCOM Stadium heading towards the festive period, with the 25-year-old only having just one league appearance to his name this term.

But Hull City boss Grant McCann has poured cold water on a potential return to Goodison Park for Pennington and has claimed in a pre-match press conference ahead of their game against West Brom, that the defender is happy and prepared to fight for his place in the starting XI.

"I’m not sure where this story involving Matt Pennington has come from. He’s happy here and he knows he’s got good competition alongside him."

Hull are currently sat 11th in the Championship table, and will be looking to build on a hugely impressive performance against Fulham last weekend.

The Tigers ran out 3-0 winners at Craven Cottage and fully deserved the victory on the day, as they restricted Scott Parker's side to just one shot on target in the whole game.

It remains to be seen as to whether Pennington will feature for Hull on a regular basis, but he'll be hoping to get a chance to impress McCann heading towards the hectic festive period.

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The Verdict: 

That's all but ended that rumour hasn't it!

McCann's comments have to be taken seriously as he sees and works with Pennington on a daily basis, so you have to take his word for it in saying that the defender is happy with the club.

With a busy fixture schedule after the international break, it's important that the Everton loanee makes the most of his chance in the starting XI, otherwise his opportunities going forward could be limited in the Hull squad.