Bullard explains switch decision

The 30-year-old midfielder left Craven Cottage on Friday to join Hull in a £5million deal. The move comes just a year after Bullard returned to action from a 15-month lay-off with a serious knee injury.

"I was in a difficult position with Fulham. I had 18 months left on my contract. I spoke to the club more than once and the club did tell me they were not willing to offer any sort of contract and I could leave in January," said Bullard. "I left my options open, came to speak to Hull and it happened."

Bullard and Fulham could not come to an agreement over a new contract and the former Wigan player accepted the offer of a four-and-a-half-year deal at the KC Stadium.

Fulham boss Roy Hodgson suggested the club could not match the terms Hull were prepared to offer, particularly over the length of contract.

"I don`t know about repaying. I signed for Fulham and that was my job, to play football and do the best I can," he added. "Repay? No, but I always gave 100% and I hope that was enough.

"I had a lot of good friends there and I wish them all the best.

"The fans, especially through my injury - I had 15 months out and a hard time - were brilliant towards me.

"I loved my time there but I understand football and it came to that point."

Tigers boss Brown said: "It is a fabulous day for me as a Premier League manager to sign a quality player such as Jimmy Bullard."