Bullard out of Hull's clash with Everton

Jimmy Bullard failed to make the Hull squad for tonight’s Barclays Premier League clash against Everton.

The £5m midfielder’s absence was a huge blow for the struggling Tigers after inspirational performances in their last two fixtures.

Veteran George Boateng played in his place, while playmaker Geovanni replaced Craig Fagan and Paul McShane returned for the suspended Bernard Mendy.

Everton were boosted at the KC Stadium by the return of Steven Pienaar after two months out with a knee injury.

Ayegbeni Yakubu, who scored when the sides met in the Carling Cup earlier this season, led the line with Louis Saha.

Hull: Duke, McShane, Gardner, Zayatte, Dawson, Garcia, Marney, Boateng, Hunt, Geovanni, Altidore.

Subs: Myhill, Barmby, Kilbane, Mouyokolo, Ghilas, Vennegoor of Hesselink, Cairney.

Everton: Howard, Neill, Yobo, Distin, Baines, Cahill, Rodwell, Heitinga, Pienaar, Saha, Yakubu.

Subs: Nash, Hibbert, Jo, Gosling, Coleman, Duffy, Baxter.

Referee: Martin Atkinson (W Yorkshire)