Bullard set to return against old club

Hull record signing Jimmy Bullard is poised to make his long-awaited comeback in the Barclays Premier League match away to his old club Fulham.

The £5m midfielder could play some part at Craven Cottage on Monday, almost nine months after suffering a serious knee injury on his Tigers debut.

Defender Anthony Gardner, who has been out since August with a knee problem, could also come into contention after playing 45 minutes in a reserves friendly this week.

Hull’s squad is now nearing full strength – although USA striker Jozy Altidore will not return from international duty until tomorrow. Ian Ashbee (knee) is the only major long-term absentee, with Richard Garcia (knee) close to a return.

Provisional squad: Myhill, McShane, Kilbane, Sonko, Dawson, Barmby, Zayatte, Marney, Hunt, Geovanni, Vennegoor of Hesselink, Mouyokolo, Gardner, Mendy, Olofinjana, Boateng, Ghilas, Cousin, Halmosi, Bullard, Altidore, Cooper, Duke, Warner.