Former Stoke City midfielder Ryan Woods has left Hull City by mutual consent, despite his contract running until next year. Woods joined Stoke from Brentford for £7 million in 2018 but spent much of his time there on loan at Millwall under Gary Rowett, who had initially signed him.
Woods moved to Hull City in the summer of 2022 from Birmingham City but only made 27 appearances, with just 14 starts in the Championship. He fell out of favor under former head coach Liam Rosenior and was loaned out to Bristol Rovers in the first half of last season, followed by a stint at Exeter City where he made 10 starts and four substitute appearances.
Reflecting on his time at Exeter, Woods expressed his satisfaction with the club’s welcoming environment and playing style, which he felt suited him well. Despite having another year left on his Hull contract, he hinted at evaluating his future with the club.
Hull City thanked Woods for his efforts in an official statement and wished him well for the future. Recalling his time at Stoke, Woods highlighted his initial positive experience under Rowett, who made him captain early on. However, subsequent managerial changes disrupted his tenure, as different coaches had varying philosophies and player preferences. Woods noted his disappointment that his hopes of influencing Stoke’s playing style, akin to Brentford’s, did not materialize.