McCarthy says Hunt is up to it as Wolves boss lines up £5m bid

29 January 2010 16:13
Wolf in Tigers' clothing? Winger Stephen Hunt[LNB]Wolves manager Mick McCarthy claims Stephen Hunt's performance will not be affected by the £5million bid he plans to make for the Hull winger after the two sides meet in Barclays Premier League relegation encounter on Saturday.[LNB]McCarthy has had three offers for the Republic of Ireland international rejected by the Tigers this month but plans to make a fourth and final after the clash at the KC Stadium before the transfer window slams shuts on Monday.[LNB]However the Molineux boss says Hunt can deal with the speculation surrounding his future because the 29-year-old has shown he can deal with high pressure situations in the past.[LNB]The former Reading player came under the intense spotlight of the media when he collided with Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech and fractured his skull in a clash at the Madejski Stadium more than three years ago.[LNB]Hunt was condemned by many following the incident and received death threats from Chelsea fans who felt he injured Cech deliberately.[LNB]The winger received a hostile reception at Stamford Bridge when he came face to face with Cech the following season but dealt with the situation - and put the ball past the Czech keeper on his debut for Hull on the opening day of this season. [LNB]'I can't say I know him that well but from watching him play, I don't think he'll be bothered,' said McCarthy.[LNB]'He had all that stuff with Petr Cech and went back and played and he scored at Chelsea for Hull.'[LNB] Under the spotlight: Hunt collides with Chelsea goalkeeper Cech back in 2006[LNB]Wolves goalkeeper Marcus Hahnemann is also convinced his former Reading team-mate can handle the pressure.[LNB]The American said: 'He's a pretty focused individual - he'll go out and do his job no matter what.[LNB]'Just from knowing him, he'll work so hard for the cause - no matter what happens off the field, come game-time he's ready to get on with it - he'll be 100 miles per hour.'[LNB]Nevertheless, Hahnemann reckons Hunt would be a great addition to a Wolves squad that already boasts several Irish players. [LNB]He added: 'He's a super strong player and I'm sure he's a player the gaffer would really like.[LNB]'He's got that attitude, the crazyiness and the Irish connection too would fit really well.'[LNB] Hull ready to bring Egypt striker Mido on loan to link up with Zaki while Hunt is chased by Wolves Hull star Jimmy Bullard set to return for crucial clash with WolvesHULL CITY FC

Source: Daily_Mail