Birmingham loanee Liam Millar could still have a future at Hull City

In the frantic final hours of the summer transfer window, Hull City made a decision that raised eyebrows among the Tigers faithful. Liam Millar, a player who had shown glimpses of promise during his time at the MKM Stadium, was allowed to depart on a season-long loan to Birmingham City. The move was framed as a way to secure regular first-team football for the Canadian international, but it also left many wondering whether his future in East Yorkshire was already over. However, fresh reports suggest that the door may not be firmly closed on Millar's Hull City career.

A complicated relationship

Millar's journey with Hull City has been anything but straightforward. Initially arriving on loan from FC Basel in the summer of 2024, the winger quickly became a favourite under then-manager Tim Walter, showcasing his direct running and ability to stretch defences. His loan was made permanent in January 2025, a signal of the club's belief in his potential. Yet, the 2025/26 campaign under new management saw his game time fluctuate, and by the time the summer transfer window slammed shut, he found himself surplus to requirements at the MKM Stadium.

The decision to loan him to Birmingham City, who were promoted to the Championship via the play-offs last season, was pragmatic. Hull City needed to balance the books and trim a squad that had become bloated with attacking options. But for a player who cost a reported £1.5 million just 18 months ago, it felt like a significant step back.

What does the future hold?

According to recent reports, Millar's loan to St Andrew's does not necessarily signal the end of his time with the Tigers. The 26-year-old remains under contract with Hull City until the summer of 2028, and the club's hierarchy, led by owner Acun Ilıcalı, are said to still rate the player highly. The loan is viewed as an opportunity for Millar to rediscover his best form and return to the MKM Stadium a more complete player.

Birmingham's interest in Millar was driven by their need for Championship experience. The Blues, under new boss Chris Davies, have invested heavily in their squad, but they were short on proven quality in the final third. Millar's arrival on deadline day provided them with a versatile attacker capable of playing on either flank or through the middle. For Hull City, the loan serves a dual purpose: it allows Millar to gain valuable minutes while also increasing his market value should a permanent sale become necessary.

Tactical fit at Hull City

Hull City's current squad is brimming with attacking talent, which partly explains Millar's exile. The Tigers have invested heavily in wide players like Anass Zaroury and Ryan Giles, while the emergence of young prospects has pushed Millar down the pecking order. Manager Ruben Selles has favoured a high-pressing, direct style of play, which should theoretically suit Millar's attributes. However, the Canadian's inconsistent end product has frustrated coaches, and he has often been deployed as a wing-back rather than a natural winger, a role that does not play to his strengths.

If Millar is to have a future at Hull City, he must prove he can contribute goals and assists on a consistent basis. In 42 appearances for the Tigers, he has scored just four goals and provided five assists – numbers that are not good enough for a player of his calibre. The loan to Birmingham offers him a fresh start, and if he can hit double figures in the Championship, he will return to the MKM Stadium with a point to prove.

Historical context

Hull City have a long history of players returning from successful loan spells to make a significant impact. One need only look at the likes of Jarrod Bowen, who, while not loaned out, developed at the club before earning a big-money move to West Ham United. More recently, players like Keane Lewis-Potter and Jacob Greaves have shown that patience and development can pay dividends. Millar, who has 70 international caps for Canada, possesses the pedigree to succeed, but he needs a sustained run of games to build confidence.

The MKM Stadium faithful are known for their loyalty, and if Millar does return, he will likely be given a second chance. The Tigers' fans have always appreciated players who show commitment and desire, and Millar's willingness to drop to a lower league (though Birmingham are now in the Championship) demonstrates a hunger to play regular football.

What happens next?

For now, Millar's focus will be on impressing at Birmingham City. The Blues are expected to challenge for a top-six finish, and Millar will be eager to play a key role. Hull City, meanwhile, will monitor his progress closely. If Millar thrives, the Tigers could either reintegrate him into their squad or sell him for a profit. If he struggles, he may find himself surplus to requirements once again.

One thing is certain: the loan deal is not a definitive end to Millar's Hull City career. With three years remaining on his contract, there is ample time for him to prove his worth. The Championship is a relentless league, and Millar's experience could be invaluable to a Hull City side that harbours promotion ambitions.

As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on St Andrew's to see if Liam Millar can rediscover the form that made him a coveted prospect. If he does, the Tigers may yet welcome back a player with a renewed sense of purpose. For now, the door at the MKM Stadium remains ajar.