Follow every kick as Hull City take on Manchester United at Kingston Communications Stadium in the Premier League
on 27-Dec-2009, kick off time 16:00
Hull City v Manchester United Live
Hull City face the unenviable task of facing Manchester United at KC Stadium as the Tigers look to further aid their fight against the drop. After an excellent month in November saw Phil Brown's men pick up eight points from a possible 12, they have found the going tough into December with just a draw and two defeats from their three fixtures. Their dip in form has coincided with the absence of influential midfielder Jimmy Bullard and he will remain on the sidelines with the knee injury he suffered early in the 3-0 defeat at Aston Villa on December 5. Long-term casualty Ian Ashbee will be out until the end of the season after tearing his posterior cruciate ligament. With United in town, they will have their work cut out if they are to improve on this record although their home form is giving reason for optimism. They have not lost in their last six games on home soil since their 1-0 setback against Birmingham City on September 19. The Red Devils' continuing injury dilemma may offer more hope for the hosts. Sir Alex Ferguson's beleaguered side were hammered 3-0 at Fulham last weekend and with a back three that consisted of Michael Carrick, Darren Fletcher and youngster Ritchie de Laet, the makeshift line-up found themselves swiftly up against the sword. With Rio Ferdinand, Nemanja Vidic, Jonny Evans, Gary Neville, Wes Brown, John O'Shea and Rafael all out injured, the Reds' crippling defensive crisis needs to be quelled as soon as possible if they are to remain in touch with leaders Chelsea. Nani, Edwin Van der Sar, Owen Hargreaves, Ryan Giggs and Federico Macheda are others who are struggling to make the festive fixtures. With the Hull clash the first of five games in a 14 day period, it could break their campaign if they don't come through it injury-free.
Source: DSG
