Malawian-born striker Henri Kumwenda has said he is happy to make his debut for Hull City Under-23 in the 2-0 loss to Nottingham Forest last week.

Kumwenda, aged 18, spoke about his delight after he was introduced in the 69th minute for Josh Hinds.

“I’m delighted to make my debut,” Kumwenda told Hull City website. “It has felt like a long time coming and it does feel great to be out there now.

“I have to shout-out all the medical and fitness coaches who have helped me get back out there in good shape.

“‘Daws’ (Andy Dawson) and ‘Nails’ (Richard Naylor) told me just to go out and enjoy it. We were 1-0 down and getting a goal would have helped, but with me being out for so long, it was just the case of going out there and enjoying it and getting a feel for it again.

“I was only allowed to play 20 to 30 minutes, even though I obviously would love to play more, but hopefully I can get more minutes and make more of an impact in later games, starting with Crewe Alexandra next Monday.”

The Malawian striker’s debut delayed as he was recovering from a long-term injury lay off.

Kumwenda joined the Tiger on a free transfer from Leeds United under-18 team.

The forward spent seven seasons in the youth ranks of Leeds while on a scholarship.

However, he was not offered a professional contract by Leeds who are playing in the Premier League. Hull, in a statement on their official website, said the club have the option of another one year on Kumwenda’s contract.