Hull City vs Sunderland Prediction: Hull needs win to stay in top six

Hull City will welcome Sunderland at The A2B Stadium in Game Week 24 of the English Championship. Hull needs three points to stay in top six in the league table. Who will come out on top after 90 minutes?

Hull City form

Hull, apart from Ipswich Town, have been the surprise package of the season, consistently holding a spot in the top six. However, they have lost three of their last five games and failed to hold onto a winning position in their most recent match against Bristol City.

Hull's home record is strong, with only two defeats in their last 11 games at the MKM Stadium, and they have won four of their last five fixtures on their home ground.

Due to an injury to Ryan Allsop, Hull City's backup goalkeeper Matt Ingram is expected to start against Bristol City. Manager Rosenior will also need to decide whether to keep Aaron Connolly in the center of the attack or replace him with Regan Slater or Liam Delap. Unfortunately, winger Jaden Philogene will be sidelined for the Tigers due to injury. 

Hull City Predicted Lineup

Ingram; Christie, Jones, Greaves, Coyle; Morton, Seri; Delap, Tufan, Twine, Connolly

Sunderland form

Michael Beale faced a difficult challenge in his first game as head coach of Sunderland, as they played against an improving Coventry City team at home. However, the result was even worse than anticipated, with Sunderland suffering a humbling 3-0 defeat at the Stadium of Light. This defeat has already put Beale under pressure in his new role.

Although Beale is a long-term appointment, there are differing opinions on his appointment. He realizes that he needs to turn things around quickly, especially when he has the opportunity to bring in new players next month. While Sunderland have only lost four of their last 10 games, which is not a terrible record, they don't seem like a team that should be just three points away from fifth place.

However, Sunderland will face Hull, Rotherham United, and Preston North End in a triple-header during the Christmas and New Year period. This presents an opportunity for them to improve their performances and results. 

Sunderland manager Beale is likely to make changes to his starting lineup, potentially including Adil Aouchiche in a creative role. Right-back Niall Huggins is dealing with a long-term injury, so Jenson Seelt may take his place. Instead of starting 18-year-old forward Eliezer Mayenda, Beale may opt for Mason Burstow. 

Sunderland Predicted Lineup

Patterson; Seelt, O'Nien, Ballard, Hume; Neil; Roberts, Bellingham, Aouchiche, Clarke; Burstow

Hull City vs Sunderland Expert Tips

Beale is hopeful for a better performance from Sunderland after their weekend defeat. However, Hull City is motivated to secure an important win in the playoff race, and with their improved stability under Rosenior, we predict they will achieve it.