Blue Days

City crashed horribly on Humberside, paying the price for a weak first half performance and allowing a competitive Hull to go two goals ahead before Adebayor gave City a lifeline. It wasn’t enough as the third defeat of Mancini’s reign was undoubtedly the worst.

Given – No chance with the goals and the Irishman looked rightly furious with what was going on in front of him. 6

Bridge – Not the return we were hoping for. Wayne wasn’t up to speed aside from a shot at the end of the first half. 5

Roberto Mancini’s side take on a Hull City team buoyed from their midweek draw against Chelsea. The Tigers have been named as one of the ‘easy’ teams that Mancini is facing on his introduction to English football, but it’s worth bearing in mind that United are the only visiting team to have won at the KC Stadium since September.

A victory over Hull is vital for Mark Hughes’ side for numerous reasons. First among these is the desire to come out of the demoralising run of six league draws with a victory.

Second is the need to stop Tottenham and others pulling away from us in the pursuit of a Champions League place.

Third is the confidence boost required at the beginning of a tough week of home fixtures. The Carling Cup fixture against Arsenal gives City their chance of a …