Matt Crooks
HUL
CM
Creative Playmaker
Jan 20, 1994 (32)
Right
6'3"
159 lb
Hull CityReturns with 59-minute outing
Crooks (quadriceps) played 59 minutes in Tuesday's 1-0 Carabao Cup defeat to Sunderland. From manager Sergej Jakirovic, "Even Crooksy (Matt), 45, but then I decide to keep him on ten minutes more because we need him. They are both good."
Analysis: Crooks returned to action after a quadriceps injury kept him out against Aston Villa, completing 59 minutes and recording two tackles. The midfielder started Hull's opening two Premier League matches before his absence and, now back available, should remain a regular option in midfield moving forward.
Starting in EFL Cup
Crooks (quadriceps) is in the starting lineup for Tuesday's EFL Cup match against Sunderland.
Analysis: Crooks trained Monday and has been included in the starting XI right away. The midfielder, who started in the Tigers' first two EPL matches before missing the scoreless draw versus Aston Villa last Sunday due to a quad problem, should remain a regular in midfield as long as he stays healthy.
Set to train ahead of Sunderland trip
Crooks (quadriceps) will train Monday with a view to being involved in Tuesday's EFL Cup clash against Sunderland, according to James Hoggarth of BBC Humberside Sport.
Analysis: Crooks had been sidelined against Aston Villa due to a precautionary decision after a quadriceps issue, and his planned involvement in training now positions him to potentially feature in the cup tie. His eventual return to the starting lineup could lead to a reduction in Lucas Gourna-Douath's playing time as Hull continues managing its midfield options.
Left out as precaution
Crooks (quadriceps) was sidelined Saturday against Aston Villa due to a precautionary decision and is expected to take part in the third EFL Cup round versus Sunderland, coach Sergej Jakirovic confirmed after the weekend's match, per Eddie Lyons of Hayters.com.
Analysis: Crooks looks set to avoid an extended absence and could soon play a major role in Hull City's midfield after recording 90 minutes of action in the 2026/27 Premier League opener before suffering the injury. His fantasy value comes mostly from ball recovery numbers, but he could also have playmaking upside in some fixtures. His eventual return to the starting lineup could lead to a reduction in Lucas Gourna-Douath's playing time.
Not in squad Saturday
Crooks (quadriceps) is not in the squad for Saturday's match against Aston Villa.
Analysis: As expected, Crooks won't be risked and isn't even on the bench. The central midfielder will aim to return against Chelsea on Saturday, Sept. 12. With Crooks out, Lucas Gourna-Douath will start in midfield next to Regan Slater.
May not be risked Saturday
Crooks (quadriceps) trained individually Thursday and could be held out of Saturday's Premier League clash against Aston Villa as a precaution, according to coach Sergej Jakirovic.
Analysis: Crooks is making progress after missing the win over Coventry due to renewed discomfort in his quadriceps, but he has yet to fully rejoin team training. His individual work Thursday is an encouraging step, though Hull may opt not to risk the midfielder against Aston Villa given the recurring nature of the issue. Hidemasa Morita should remain a leading candidate to start in midfield if Crooks isn't cleared to return.
Expected back after absence
Crooks (quadriceps) may not face an extended recovery period, with manager Sergej Jakirovic saying "Matt was a big blow for us. He had some problems after Manchester United, so we didn't include him against Stoke in midweek, but then on Friday he felt his quad again, although I still expect him to join in again with us this week".
Analysis: Crooks is an important piece of his team's midfield when available, and his recovery would likely revert the change that saw Hidemasa Morita move into the starting lineup against Coventry. The former Real Salt Lake man could produce through passes and defensive numbers if he returns to action in upcoming weeks, having racked up four tackles (three won), two clearances and two blocks during his opening performance.
Misses due to quad issue
Crooks has a slight quad issue but is not considered a long term problem and should be back for next week's match against Aston Villa, according to Mike White of BBC Humberside.
Analysis: Crooks misses Saturday's clash against Coventry with the injury, with Hidemasa Morita stepping in for him in midfield. He made 34 Championship appearances last season, contributing four goals and five assists while offering versatility across multiple midfield positions during Hull's promotion campaign, and this quick expected turnaround is an encouraging sign as he looks to make his mark back in the Premier League.
Versatile squad option
Crooks provided depth and versatility across multiple positions for Hull during the promotion campaign, offering the coaching staff a reliable option capable of operating in attacking midfield or central midfield when required.
Analysis: Crooks made 34 Championship appearances this season, contributing four goals and five assists while offering the coaching staff a reliable option capable of operating across multiple positions in and around the midfield. His set-piece delivery and long-range shooting give him an additional dimension going forward, and his Championship experience and leadership qualities add value beyond his direct statistical contribution. While he is unlikely to be a regular starter at the higher level, his versatility and consistent goal involvement make him a valuable option for coach Sergej Jakirovic to call upon throughout what will be a demanding first season back in Premier League.
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