Hull City boss Nigel Adkins has been talking up tonight's opponents, believing them to be better than high-flying Leeds United and big-spending Nottingham Forest.

His side face leaders Norwich City, a side few would have predicted to be in pole position at this stage of the season. Having watched video footage, Adkins believes they're better than two of the biggest names in the title race.

Marcelo Bielsa's Leeds have been earning praise from all quarters for their high-tempo approach this season, whilst Aitor Karanka's side are only two wins from the summit despite an indifferent start, but former Scunthorpe manager Adkins believes both are weaker than Daniel Farke's dark horses.

“I’ve watched the footage of Norwich and they’re top of the league for a reason. They’re an excellent side,” he told the Hull Daily Mail.

“I thought Leeds were good but Norwich are probably better. They play out from the back. You talk about Nottingham Forest keeping possession, they’ll keep possession a hell of a lot more than that. They’ll be a far tougher opponent than Nottingham Forest. They pass the ball for fun."

The Tigers are currently second from bottom in the Championship, and have already lost at home to Leeds and Forest this season, 1-0 and 2-0 respectively.

The Verdict

It's hard to argue with Adkins when the league table suggests to a degree, he's right. At this moment in time they have accrued more points than either of the sides he's mentioned and therefore technically are 'better'.

It's a season of 46 games though, not 18 and the side that eventually finishes top of the pile will be defined as the best. Hull have a chance to dent Norwich's hopes of doing just that.

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