Both Abel Hernandez and Adama Diomande are set to be available for Hull City’s opening day clash with Aston Villa in the Sky Bet Championship, reports the Birmingham Mail.

Hull are preparing for their return to the second-tier and will come up against their former manager Steve Bruce on the first day of the new season, when they travel to Villa Park for Saturday’s teatime clash.

There had been fears over the availability of both Hernandez and Diomande, but Leonid Slutsky, who will take charge of his first competitive game, has confirmed the duo will both be available.

Their availability is a huge boost for Slutsky, who is hoping to lead Hull straight back to the Premier League in the coming year.

Last season, Hernandez scored just five goals in the Premier League, but his record in the Championship the year before was excellent, with the 26-year-old scoring 21 goals.

Diomande also disappointed in the Premier League last season, but he is set to challenge for a starting berth.

Hernandez and Diomande will challenge new signing, Fraizer Campbell, for a place in the starting XI, with the former Crystal Palace striker looking to make his second debut for the Tigers.

Bruce also has injury troubles, with Villa missing last season’s 19-goal striker, Jonathan Kodjia.

The Verdict

This is a major boost for Hull City, who face a tough task if they are to challenge for promotion in the Sky Bet Championship.

The sale of key players has left the club short of options heading into the new season, and the availability of both Hernandez and Diomande will give the Tigers a lift.

The duo, alongside Fraizer Campbell, gives Slutsky some exciting options in attack ahead of Saturday’s teatime clash with Villa.

Hull City fans… Let us know your thoughts!