Today we hear from Hull blogger Rick Skelton of @HullCityLive....
Were you happy with your transfer business this summer?
Given the constant speculation over many of our players and the relative few we eventually lost, I’d have to be. The signings we made were generally young and hungry to impress, but it was holding on to key players like Ahmed Elmohamady, Michael Dawson and Abel Hernandez that was the really pleasing aspect.
On current form, Hull look set for a return to the top flight. What are your hopes for the season?
I always thought we’d be in the promotion picture but I’ve upgraded my wish from a Play-Off place to a top-two finish. We certainly have the squad to compete around the top. It was good to start with but then Mo Diame and Jake Livermore returning gave everyone a lift earlier in the season and we’re soon to be boosted by Robert Snodgrass finding full fitness after 14 months out – and the introduction of Norwegian striker Adama Diomande who we spent good money on and haven’t see yet.
Can Hull win the cup?
If we can win this tie then I don’t see why not. We’re obviously facing the best team left in it so getting through would suggest we can go all the way. Winning this game is easier said than done, though.
If you could place one Manchester City player in the Hull team, who would it be?
Just one? When he’s fit I think Sergio Aguero is the best striker on the planet but we’ve already got a South American goal hunter in Hernandez... so I’d take David Silva to put the chances on plate for him.
Any rising stars in the Hull ranks who might get a chance today?
Not quite home-grown but Harry Maguire has seized his chance in the Hull City first team with recent injuries and suspensions and is showing real promise as an uncompromising centre-half who can really play a bit. He’s got a big future. It’s easy to forget he’s only 22 given he’s heading towards 200 career appearances.
Who is your most important player?
Abel Hernandez. Despite success in recent years, sticking the ball in the back of the net has been our Achilles heel throughout. Hernandez is a real poacher and is full of confidence at the moment. He’s not the most talented in the squad but he does the most important job.
What will be the key battle in today’s game?
It will be whether we can compete in midfield and stop Man City having the run of the game. Sadly, David Meyler is injured because he does a lot of hard work off the ball and that’s what The Tigers will need if we’re to get any foothold in the game.
Predicted starting XI:
As a 4-4-2: McGregor; Odubajo, Robertson, Davies, Maguire; Elmohamady, Clucas, Huddlestone, Livermore; Diame, Hernandez.
Prediction?
A 1-1 draw – with Hull City to win on pens!
