....... I never thought Hull would have been promoted this season.
Actually I don't think it was such a surprise. They only dropped out of the PL in 2009-10, and they didn't implode in doing so. Indeed they managed to keep hold of several good players and finished safely mid-table (11th) in 2010-11. The following season, 2011-12, they rejigged their squad and improved to finish 8th. Also, a new owner took over, releasing money to improve the squad. So, when Steve Bruce was appointed they were already on an upward path and had been revitalised both on and off the field. I'd say it is not really that surprising, though I wouldn't have predicted automatic promotion for them this year, more a play-off place (which would have been the case had Watford not blown it at the end).
Re. Dazz's post, I think the test to apply is: How would we have reacted to XXXX being appointed manager of NCFC last summer? My guess is we would have been horrified if any of those had been appointed. If we had had to appoint one of them, most would say Steve Bruce would have been the best of a poor lot. But would anyone have been pleased with the appointment?

