CRYSTAL Palace manager Neil Warnock believes Tigers boss Steve Bruce deserved to pick up last season's manager of the year award – and praised Hull City owner Assem Allam for backing his manager.
Ahead of tomorrow's trip to the KC Stadium, Warnock says his opposite number should have been awarded more recognition in place of Palace predecessor Tony Pulis.
A record-breaking season for the Tigers ultimately brought a first FA Cup Final appearance, as well as Premier League survival and a best ever finish in 16th spot.
Pulis, on the other hand, rescued Palace from the bottom three and went on to guide the Eagles to 11th place.
"I know Tony got manager of the year but I thought Steve Bruce was head and shoulders the best manager around," Warnock said.
"To make a club like Hull very comfortable in the Premier League and to get to the FA Cup final – I thought that was fantastic.
"He's done an incredible job and he's got fabulous support from his chairman too.
"I know the chairman gets criticism but there aren't many teams in the bottom half who have had as much money put in as Hull.
"He's been fantastic and they've bought some very good players."
Palace remain unbeaten since Warnock returned for his second spell at Selhurst Park.
Pulis' shock departure 48 hours prior the Premier League campaign began saw the Eagles in trouble before a ball had even been kicked.
However, the impressive 3-2 win at Everton was followed by a 2-0 victory at home to newcomers Leicester last weekend, which sees the Eagles sitting pretty in ninth.
"I've got nothing to lose and I want my players to enjoy it and not be frightened of expressing themselves in the right areas," Warnock said.
"Everyone has got strengths – I'm very lucky because you couldn't ask for more effort and commitment.
"As a Palace fan that's the minimum you require – you want your players to sweat blood and that's what they're doing.
"The fans get behind the players because they know they're trying their hardest to win."
