Statistical Preview: Hull Entertain Cardiff As The Tigers Prowl For Points

The season may only be three weeks old, but this clash could already be considered a real ‘six pointer’. Hull’s chances may depend heavily on Ahmed Elmohamady who has completed more passes in the opposition half (86) than any other Hull player.

Likewise, Sone Aluko will be expected to carry much of the attacking burden for Hull. He completed 4 dribbles against Manchester City, more than any other striker in the Premier League according to the EA SPORTS Player Performance Index.

Looking at the EA SPORTS Player Performance Index it is unsurprising to see why Steve Bruce was so desperate to add a striker to his squad over the Summer. Between them, Hull’s strikers have only mustered 4 shots at goal so far this season. Danny Graham is one of the culprits for Hull’s goalscoring woes, but 888sport.com have him at 15/2 to change this trend on Saturday.

Defensively, Hull appear to rely heavily on Maynor Figueroa. The Honduran has made 10 tackles this season, more than any other Hull player.

Cardiff continued their solid start to the season with a nil-nil draw at home to Everton. Matthew Connelly can take much of the credit for this rearguard effort making a total of 18 defensive contributions (tackles, interceptions, headers and clearances).

Cardiff City captain Craig Bellamy is mostly known for his pace, and his ability to hit the back of the net. Interestingly, however, the skipper has been putting in a big defensive shift this season. The EA SPORTS Player Performance Index shows that Bellamy has attempted 12 tackles so far this season – more than any other striker.

Bellamy also demonstrated his creativity last weekend, as his 19 passes in the Everton half was more than any of his team mates.

Cardiff City have made a host of big name seasons so far this season, but it is one of the stalwarts from their Championship-winning side who has caught the eye this season. Kim Bo-Kyung has been showcasing his guile and flair, completing 9 dribbles – the most of any Cardiff player.

Peter Whittingham may have failed to register his name on the scoresheet so far this season, but that can’t be down to lack of effort. The midfielder has taken 6 shots so far this season according to the EA SPORTS Player Performance Index – more than any other player. 888sport.com have Whittingham at 11/1 to score the first goal on Saturday.

Data supplied by the EA SPORTS Player Performance Index. Select and manage your own team of stars at http://fantasy.premierleague.com/ or with FIFA Ultimate Team for FIFA 14.