Hull City F.C.: Three hopes, one fear

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BURNLEY, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 10: Robert Snodgrass of Hull City celebrates scoring his sides first goal during the Premier League match between Burnley and Hull City at Turf Moor on September 10, 2016 in Burnley, England. (Photo by Alex Morton/Getty Images) /

Hope #1: That Robert Snodgrass’ electric start can last.

Robert Snodgrass. Scoring wizard. Let that sit in for a moment.

The 29-year-old Scottish international has taken the Premier League by storm this season, scoring three goals in The Tigers first five matches. Considering that two of his goals have helped the Tigers get points in matches it is undeniable that Snodgrass has had a very good early run of form. Can he keep it up?

Caretaker manager Mike Phelan has done an interesting thing with Snodgrass this season that very few other coaches have done: play him wide. As opposed to playing him as a center midfielder Phelan has him slotted as a left midfielder. Although this sounds like a slight shift it is a very important move. Rather than having to act as a facilitator and goal-scorer Snodgrass can focus just on driving the ball down the pitch and on his shot.

But can Snodgrass keep it up? His previous season-best in terms of goals scored was his 13 tallies while playing for Leeds United in 2011-2012. Phelan has to create some balance on the attack and help develop other players in case Snodgrass falls through. It will also help when teams start to defend Snodgrass more closely and do not give him the same amount of space that they did before.

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