Hull City manager Nigel Adkins has said he is confident he can keep his trio of on loan Chelsea defenders, telling the Hull Daily Mail he expects to keep all three beyond the January transfer window.

The trio of Fikayo Tomori, Michael Hector, and Ola Aina have all become key components of the Tigers squad, and after getting off to a winning start to his tenure last weekend, Adkins has reiterated the club's desire and confidence in keeping the three defensive units.

In the interview, Adkins commented that 'as far as he's aware, their contracts mean they are here till the end of the season', news which will be a huge boost to Tigers fans as they hope to see their club climb the Championship table after a poor opening half to the season has left them closer to the bottom than the top six.

Adkins said he was keen to 'develop them individually' while also stressing the importance of getting the trio as part of the group and winning football games for the club.

Hull take on high flying Cardiff City this evening in a tough assignment for the Yorkshire club, with Neil Warnock's charges in fine form in the Championship this term.

Hull fans, what do you make of your on loan trio? Give us your thoughts in the comments!