Hull City Match Preview

Arsenal return to Premier League action today after securing their place in the Champions League quarter finals with a scintillating 5-0 victory over FC Porto. Since gaining their top tier status in 2008, Hull City’s clashes with the Gunners have provided some memorable moments.  When William Gallas’ goal sent Arsene Wenger’s side into the FA Cup semi-finals last season the victory was overshadowed by allegations that Cesc Fabregas had spat at City assistant Brian Horton.

Just six months earlier The Tigers’ had announced themselves on the considerable Premier League stage with a famous win at the Emirates courtesy of two goals in four second half minutes from Geovanni and Daniel Cousin. A repeat of the 3-0 victory at the Emirates in December will see Arsenal maintain the pressure of title rivals Chelsea and Man Utd, but they will again be without club captain Cesc Fabregas. The Spaniard is still struggling with a hamstring injury, but is hopeful of returning for the visit of West Ham next weekend.

With Alex Song suspended, Denilson will complete the visitor’s midfield alongside Abou Diaby and Samir Nasri, both of whom were formidable in Arsenal’s win on tuesday night. Tomas Rosicky faces a late fitness test and if ruled the Czech international will be replaced by Theo Walcott.
Bacary Sagna and Sol Campbell are also doubts. The 35 year old’s ability to play twice in five days in question, whilst the French full back is suffering with ankle problems and may be deputised by Emmanuel Eboue.

Phil Brown has far fewer injury concerns as his side looks to end their three game losing streak. Hull welcome back Craig Fagan from suspension, but will have to wait on the fitness of leading goalscorer Stephen Hunt after the winger received painkilling injections in his foot. The Hull manager has dismissed claims that there are serious divisions in his camp after Nicky Barmby and Jimmy Bullard’s training ground bust up on Monday. Instead he believes that the incident shows the players are commited to preserving their clubs Premier League status,

“Nicky Barmby has obviously got himself involved with Jimmy Bullard and it’s a sign that they care”, he went on to discuss the importance of today’s game, “We have 10 big challenges and the challenge is to get something from the game against one of the best teams in the world footballing wise.”

At yesterday’s press conference Wenger spoke about his side’s new found mental toughness, and how their self belief has allowed them to continually defy the doubters.

“Nobody expected us to be where we are today so that is a bonus. If you look at some statements from pre-season then some people did not expect us to be in the top eight.”

With his sides top three status almost certainly assured, the Frenchman now has old adversaries Chelsea and Man Utd firmly in his sights as his blossoming side looks to defy the odds one more time.{jcomments on}