Hull City have announced that Mike Phelan has become the club's head coach on a permanent basis.

The 54-year-old took over as caretaker boss in July following the departure of Steve Bruce, who is now in charge of Aston Villa.

Phelan - a former Manchester United assistant boss to Sir Alex Ferguson - became a frontrunner for the permanent position after a strong start to the Premier League season.

The Tigers claimed back-to-back wins in the first two weeks of the campaign, with victories over defending league champions Leicester City and Swansea City.

The team have recorded four defeats and one draw since then, and in that time there was growing uncertainty over Phelan's position as contract talks were drawn out.

However, it has now been confirmed by the club that Phelan will take the team forward on a permanent basis.

"It's been a while in coming, but I'm happy with the position I am now in and looking forward to the challenge ahead," Phelan told the club's official website.

"It has taken time but things have to be done correctly with these matters. What is important now is that we move forward and help this squad of players be successful for this football club. It's exciting to step over that threshold into management, and I'm looking forward to working with this group of players that has done so well so far.

"The support I have received from everyone has been magnificent and I want that to continue because the challenges ahead are huge. The fans have been excellent through the last few months and the players have given me their full backing. I'm looking forward to what is to come now so roll on the next few games."

Hull are currently 15th in the league table.