On paper, it looked like the worst possible fixture to start with for Hull City but the Tigers had something else in their minds as they shook the world with a shock 2-1 win against Premier League holders Leicester City. Well, that’s the beauty of the Premier League. It never fails to surprise you. The team that had the whole world by surprise last season, Leicester City were brought back to earth in the season opener itself by a weak Hull City team without a manager.
Even though Hull City managed to get an inspiring start after their Premier League comeback, the reality is that they look far from a squad that has what it takes to keep themselves in the Premier League. Mike Phelan has just 13 fit senior players at his disposal and now face a stern test against Swansea City who also started their season on a winning note against another Premier League new boys Burnley.
Another win will really boost the confidence of the Tigers but a defeat will be a reality check for the owners who are yet to spend a single penny in the transfer market. Here is the predicted Hull City line-up against Swansea City.
Defence
Hull’s first choice keeper Allan McGregor is out with a long-term back injury which will sideline him for the rest of the calendar year meaning that Eldin Jakupovic will start between the sticks. Curtis Davies still remains the only fit central defender at the club. Jake Livermore did a good job as an emergency centre-back against Leicester City and the former Spurs midfielder is likely to continue alongside Davies at the heart of the defence. Ahmed Elmohamady and Andrew Robertson are likely to start in the two full-back positions.
Midfield
Tom Huddlestone is likely to start the game as the defensive midfielder. The 29-year-old’s key job will be to protect his back four and win possession in the middle of the park. Sam Clucas and David Meyler are likely to start the game as the two box to box midfielders.
Attack
Robert Snodgrass had a brilliant game against Leicester City and also marked his brilliant display with a goal. The Scottish international will start on the right flank. Adama Diomande, another goalscorer last weekend, will keep his place on the left flank. Abel Hernandez will be starting as the focal point of Hull’s attack against Swansea.
