Live Commentary

Trio missing for Hammers George McCartney returns to the West Ham squad for the visit of Hull. But the Hammers will be without Nicky Maynard, John Carew and Joey O'Brien for the must-win clash at Upton Park. McCartney is set to come straight back in at left-back having missed the last three matches after suffering concussion against Birmingham earlier this month. Strikers Maynard and Carew are struggling with knee injuries while right-back O'Brien is still missing with a thigh problem. Carlton Cole should keep his place in attack in Maynard's absence, although Sam Baldock could also come into the reckoning. Sam Allardyce's side need a victory to stand any chance of overtaking Southampton and snatching the second automatic promotion spot. Hull manager Nick Barmby is hoping to add midfield pair Robert Koren and Tom Cairney to his squad. Koren, voted player of the year by Hull fans this week, was forced out of last weekend's win over Nottingham Forest after taking a knock, but is expected to return to full training in time. Cairney missed out against Forest with heavy bruising to his leg, but will also be back in contention. Skipper Jack Hobbs (knee), fellow defender Joe Dudgeon and striker Aaron McLean (both hamstring) remain sidelined, but Barmby has no other new injury or suspension worries. Wingers Josh King and Robbie Brady are both hoping for recalls after stepping off the bench last week, while midfielder Seyi Olofinjana, who last appeared as a late substitute in the win over Middlesbrough earlier this month, will be hoping for a rare run out in the Tigers' last match of the season.