Phelan targets EFL progression

Mike Phelan is targeting a place in the EFL Cup semi-finals and has vowed to field a strong team for the visit of Newcastle to the KCOM.

The Tigers are currently in the relegation zone with just three wins from their first 13 Premier League games but they go into Tuesday's game on the back of a 1-1 draw at home to West Brom.

Newcastle, meanwhile, will be looking to bounce back from their 1-0 loss to Blackburn Rovers and Phelan knows he will have to field his strongest possible side if Hull are to defeat the Championship leaders.

"We’ve progressed in the EFL Cup, and having reached this stage, it’s important to maintain the momentum we've gained," Phelan told his pre-match press conference.

"We will do our job, and prepare the team to play what is a very good Newcastle United side.

"All the players are looking forward to it though and everyone on the pitch will be giving their all to help us progress."

He went on: "When you look at Newcastle, they have a really experienced manager (Rafael Benitez). He's one of the most experienced managers in the Championship.

"I’m sure they will be looking forward to the game just as much as we are, but we want to play well and progress."

Hull will be without Ryan Mason for Tuesday's game because of the bug that forced him to come off against the Baggies.

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