Hull City boss Steve Bruce has spoken out about speculation surrounding Abel Hernandez’s future, saying that he wants the striker to stay at the KC Stadium this season.

This is the first time Bruce comments on the subject since Hernandez revealed his intention to return to Italy, only one year since his move from Palermo.

The Daily Star quoted the Tigers manager as saying, "We have had no offers for Abel. There's all this nonsense going around that we'd loan him out, but we don't have to do that," the Hull boss told reporters.

"He can conjure a goal out of nothing, and I want the transfer window to close with Abel still here."

Bruce is desperate not to lose any of his attacking weapons ahead of the new campaign, especially with a disappointing summer that has witnessed the departure of key players following a relegation to the Sky Bet Championship.

The Uruguayan forward joined the Tigers for a record £10 million in 2014, and he managed only four goals in 26 games he played in his maiden season. His inability to adapt to life with the Yorkshire outfit doesn’t seem to deter Bruce from giving him a second chance to raise up to his profile.

The Tigers have wrapped up their preparation for the new season with a 1-1 draw against Sheffield United, with Hernandez scoring a late equaliser to keep his team unbeaten in pre-season. Bruce said he was delighted that low tempo matches are now over with a clean bill of health, and that intensity is back to the game.

Hull City fans..... What do you make of this news? Would you like to see Abel Hernandez stay at the KC Stadium? Let us know your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!