Hull City -Vs- Cardiff City

Hull City host promotion rivals Cardiff City in a crucial Championship encounter at the KC on Saturday.

Both sides have Premier League aspirations, with Cardiff currently occupying a play-off position while Hull City`s 1-0 victory over Derby County left them just five points from sixth placed Leeds United.

Victory over Cardiff would move Nigel Pearson`s side to within five points of tomorrow`s opponents and increase growing optimism at the KC. However, the next month is set to define City`s season with several of the top sides facing Pearson`s outfit.

Vital Quotes:

Hull City Team News:

Hull City have no fresh injury worries, but could make one change with Jay Simpson pushing for a start in place of Tijani Belaid.

Anthony Gerrard is permitted to play against his parent club as part of the loan agreement that has brought the centre-back to the KC on a season long loan.

Player to watch: Anthony Gerrard

The on-loan Cardiff defender has a point to prove against his parent club when they arrive at the KC tomorrow. Having scored the winner on Tuesday night and recently against Preston North End; both 1-0 victories – Gerrard is desperate for a late promotion push and will be integral if City are to close the gap on Cardiff tomorrow.

Cardiff City Team News:

Seyi Olofinjana is permitted to play against his parent club as part of his loan agreement, but could miss out on a return to the KC with a knee injury.

Craig Bellamy has recovered from illness and should feature while Jason Koumas remains a doubt having also picked up an illness this past week.

Player to watch: Michael Chopra

Cardiff striker Michael Chopra has been in goal scoring form in recent weeks, netting on Tuesday night against Leicester City, with the Welsh side looking to his scoring form if they are to win promotion.

Match Facts & Stats

Cardiff emerged victorious from the encounter earlier in the season, Seyi Olofinjana heading in against his parent club before adding a late second goal to end City`s hopes of a draw.

Both teams meet in good form, but Cardiff have been poor on the road in recent outings and arrive at Hull who have conceded just six goals at home all season.

Vital Hull Prediction: City 2 – 0 Cardiff City