Robert Koren
Koren top scored for Hull last season but his contribution will likely have to improve if City are to avoid relegation.

Last season

Championship: 2<sup>nd

FA Cup: Fourth Round

League Cup: Second Round

Top scorer: Robert Koren (9)

Summer work

After relying on loan signings during previous campaigns, the number one priority for Hull in the transfer window was the addition of a goalkeeper and in Scotland's Allan McGregor and ex-Newcastle United stopper Steve Harper the club have added well. Maynor Figueroa and Danny Graham are the highest profile of the six other signings. The changing of the club's name to 'Hull City Tigers' is the most significant change during the off-season, with owner Assem Allam compromising his popularity.

Manager - Steve Bruce

An expert in achieving mid-table mediocrity, Bruce can be Hull's trump card in avoiding a swift return to the second tier. Impressive spells at Birmingham City and Wigan Athletic, where he cemented the club's Premier League status, saw him earn a chance with Sunderland. However, just 29 wins in 98 games led to his departure in November 2011. Won promotion with Hull in his first season at the KC Stadium but faces his greatest challenge this year.

Key Player - Robert Koren

Captain, chief midfield schemer and premier goal threat. The Slovenian international has previous in the top flight with West Bromwich Albion and is back to spearhead Hull's hopes of avoiding relegation. Koren is diminutive in stature yet a shrewd technician in the middle of the park whose style is at odds with Bruce's approach to the game.

Expectations

Naturally, Hull's budget alone suggests they are among the favourites for relegation. Bruce's experience may be significant, but his cautious approach could be their undoing. Only nine sides scored fewer goals in the Championship last season and the addition of Graham, who failed to net for Sunderland after joining in January, doesn't inspire confidence.

Prediction

A season which rests on survival will end in failure. 19th