Derby County boss responds to talk Jack Marriott could join Hull City

Derby County manager Phillip Cocu has told reporters he sees no reason for Jack Marriott to leave the club amid speculation of a move to Hull City, the Hull Daily Mail report.

Marriott has struggled for form this season, scoring just one Championship goal.

Many Derby supporters feel he should be featuring more often, but a succession of niggling injuries and fitness issues have limited his playing opportunities.

(Photo by James Williamson – AMA/Getty Images).

Marriott has since been linked with a January move to Hull City. But, Cocu told reporters after the draw at Wigan Athletic he sees no reason for him to leave the club.

I don’t know anything about speculation, so that is something we can be clear about. I don’t see any reason. Rumours will always be around, but not from our side. I don’t say he will play always, but he has certain qualities we need but he also has to work on his physical state that he can bring what he brings over a longer period of time. Last season he had the same problem

Marriott joined Derby in the summer of 2018 for a projected £5 million fee.

The former Peterborough United striker soon became a fan favourite with the Rams, illustrating hard work off the ball and a natural finish in-front of goal.

Marriott, 25, scored ten goals last season, including the winner in the 4-2 second-leg playoff semi-final victory at Leeds United. He netted twice at Elland Road that evening.

But he has struggled to replicate that form this season. Marriott has started just seven Championship games, with a further 11 appearances off the bench.

It seems he is third choice behind Chris Martin and Martyn Waghorn. With Wayne Rooney available from January, he will have to work harder to get into the side.