Pep Guardiola’s side head to the KCOM Stadium for a teatime Boxing Day clash.
Mike Phelan knew he was going in at the deep end when he decided to accept the challenge of keeping Hull in the Premier League, and the task has so far proved as difficult as he may have feared.
The Tigers will spend Christmas bottom of the pile having collected just 12 points so far, while they are also the division’s lowest scorers. Investment is needed in January, but whether the club’s unpopular owners sanction that is another matter.
Manchester City travel to East Yorkshire buoyed by their stirring win over Arsenal last weekend. It was the first time City have won a match in which they have been trailing at half-time since 2012, and the three points kept them just about in touch with runaway leaders Chelsea.
Manchester City’s Raheem Sterling celebrates scoring their second goal with team mates
The Key Battle – Tom Huddlestone vs Yaya Toure
In the festive fixtures three years ago, Huddlestone was on the scoresheet and then linked with an England call-up after helping Hull thump Fulham 6-0.
A lot has changed in the time since, and the former Tottenham man will need to roll back the years to compete with Toure on Boxing Day. The Ivorian has impressed since being reintroduced to the City fold, having added composure to his side’s midfield.
Burnley’s George Boyd in action with Hull City’s Tom Huddlestone
Last Meeting:
Manchester City ran out 4-1 winners in last season’s League Cup meeting between the two sides, but the last Premier League clash between the two was more equal and ended in a 1-1 draw at the Etihad.
Hull have not beaten the Citizens since 2010, when rare goals from Jozy Altidore and George Boateng secured a famous 2-1 win.
Recent league form – most recent last:
Hull City – LDLDLL
Manchester City – WWLLWW
Manchester City’s Yaya Toure celebrates scoring their second goal
Who’s the ref?
Robert Madley will be overseeing proceedings in this one.
The 31-year-old official has taken charge of 15 matches in all competitions this season, showing 69 yellow cards and two reds in the process.
What time is kick off?
The match gets underway at 5.15pm on Boxing Day.
General view of the KCOM Stadium
Where can I watch it?
Sky Sports 1 are showing Hull City v Manchester City, with coverage beginning at 5pm.
Odds
Hull City – 15/2
Draw – 4/1
Manchester City – 1/3
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