Fan Focus: Hull - Larsson’s ‘legs have gone’; without McGeady is there anyone to even worry about?

RF: I guess I shouldn't be too surprised that Hull appointed Leonid Slutsky after you went outside the box when Marco Silva came in. It's a very interesting choice though, how's he getting on so far?

JU: One of the good things that the Allams bring to owning City is there nose for a good manager, with only Mike Phelan failing during their tenure. Leonid certainly has a strong pedigree after winning titles in his native Russia and being in charge of the Russian national team during Euro 2016. We have certainly taken to his jolly persona and his positivity.

Tactically, away from home he has been found wanting so far, with us conceding at will. How much of the blame is down to him or the fact that we did most of our transfer deals late in the window for a second season in a row, remains to be seen.

RF: Can you update us on what the feelings are towards Assem Allam? Are the protests towards him and his family still very prominent or have things died down?

JU: Well, although Assam is still the Chairman, it is his son Ehab that is in charge of the day to day running of the club. Most supporters feelings are unchanged, with the majority wanting the family gone from the club. There have been a number of small protest groups popping up this summer, but many of our most vociferous supporters no longer go, due to them boycotting until the Allams have left.

Photo by Nathan Stirk/Getty Images

RF: Aside from blazing that penalty over the bar against Derby, how has Seb Larsson done since his arrival? He split opinion here but I always liked him, as he always gave his all for the club.

JU: It’s a bit early to judge, but he looks okay generally. I think his legs have gone a little bit and I would expect him to be more of a squad player than an automatic starter.

RF: Who should Sunderland fans be worried about in the Hull side, going into the game? Anyone in decent form?

JU: Only one man has excelled so far this season, Jarrod Bowen. He came from Hereford as a 17 year old, and now at 20 is having his first run of games for the club. The winger-cum-striker has five goals from seven games so far and has been our shining light in a disappointing early season.

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RF: And is there anyone you're worried about in our side? Bearing in mind the likes of Lewis Grabban and Aiden McGeady could miss out through injury.

JU: I am not being disrespectful, but last year there was only Defoe I was worried about and he has now gone, so I am not sure? Watmore is a player I like the look of and I am pleased both him and McGeady could miss out. McGeady given space, has the ability to hurt teams.

RF: How do you reckon Slutsky will approach the game and what do you think the starting line up will be?

JU: After a disappointing run of results and two different formations in the last two games, your guess is as good as mine. Slutsky seems to be an attack minded manager, especially at home, but as for who starts, only Bowen can class himself as a definite starter.

RF: Last but not least, let's have a score prediction!

JU: Only Wolves have beaten us at home and we have destroyed both Bolton and Burton, so I will stick my neck out and say a tight home win. 2 v 1.

Thanks again to John, you can follow him on Twitter if you’re that way inclined.