Liam Delap believes he is a stronger player for his struggles at Stoke and Preston, as he aims to make it third time lucky in the Championship next season.
Delap rose to prominence at City with his prolific scoring at youth level, before netting on his senior debut in the Carabao Cup against Bournemouth two years ago. He was involved around the first team for much of 2021/22 until injury hit, and he was then sent on loan for senior experience last season.
He joined father Rory at Stoke but struggled to make an impact with just three goals in 23 outings before making a January switch to Preston. However, he only scored once at Deepdale from 15 outings.
Now, he has joined fellow Championship outfit Hull, and says he will be better for a tough debut season in the second tier.
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"It was my first full proper season playing men's football and as a young player you learn a lot when you're on the ropes a little bit," he told HullLive.
"At times it was hard, and in those hard times you learn a lot, a lot more than when you're playing well. Preparing for this season, already off the back of last season, I've learned so much, and hopefully I can use that experience and knowledge of understanding what the league's about and be more ready this season."
Delap's pre-season has already begun, with a trip to Turkey to face Galatasaray and Hatayspor. After linking up with his new team, Delap feels he can have a positive year on Humberside to make up for last season's struggles.
"The on-the-ball stuff will be very impressive, and I'll just do the role that the gaffer has asked me to do," Delap noted.
"I think I'm powerful, quick, and aggressive. I have a lot to improve on, obviously, but my main attributes are my aggression, power and finishing. I hope I can come here and score a lot of goals."
