This weekend’s match between Hull City and Preston North End at Deepdale promises to be a crucial encounter with playoff implications. Hull, currently sitting in sixth place, will aim to extend their lead over Preston, who trail them by three points in the standings. A victory for Hull could see them pull further away from their rivals, potentially opening up a six-point gap depending on other results.

Both teams are in good form, with Hull securing three wins, one draw, and one loss in their last five matches, while Preston have won four out of their last five games, including victories against strong opponents like Ipswich Town, Middlesbrough, and Coventry City. This resurgence for Preston suggests they are rediscovering the form that saw them near the top of the table earlier in the season.

In terms of squad fitness, Hull City have no fresh injury concerns, although they are still without Liam Delap due to a serious leg injury sustained in January. However, they have welcomed back key players like Jean Michael Seri and Jaden Philogene, and have reinforced their squad with loan signings during the January transfer window.

On the other hand, Preston North End will be without Kian Best, Brad Potts, and Duane Holmes for the upcoming match against Hull. Unlike Hull, Preston did not strengthen their squad during the January transfer window.

Hull manager Liam Rosenior provided a positive update on the fitness of Noah Ohio, Adama Traore, and Billy Sharp after a behind-closed-doors game to maintain match fitness. Rosenior emphasized the importance of high energy and pressing in his team’s style of play, indicating that Ohio’s performance in the practice match has put him in contention for the upcoming fixture.

In terms of key players to watch, Hull City will need to be wary of former player Will Keane, who is Preston’s top scorer this season with 12 goals and two assists. Additionally, Robbie Brady, a former teammate of Hull manager Liam Rosenior, has been influential for Preston and will pose a threat to Hull’s defense.

With both teams vying for a spot in the top six as the season approaches its conclusion, every point becomes crucial. The match between Hull City and Preston North End promises to be an exciting and fiercely contested encounter as both teams seek to strengthen their playoff aspirations.

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