Hull City will be without their head coach, Sergej Jakirovic, this Saturday as they prepare to host Norwich City at the MKM Stadium. This match holds significant importance for the Tigers, who are striving to secure a place in the Championship's top six. Currently, Hull are enduring a troubling six-match winless streak, with their last victory recorded prior to the international break in March. Read more about McLean Claims Norwich City Player of the Season Award.
Jakirovic's absence stems from a controversial red card he received during a recent match against Leicester City, where referee Thomas Kirk misinterpreted his gestures on the touchline. The Tigers’ manager insisted he was merely encouraging his players rather than directing sarcastic applause towards the officials. Following discussions with the Football Association (FA), it has been confirmed that Jakirovic will serve a one-match touchline ban for this weekend's game.
In Jakirovic's absence, assistant manager Marko Salatovic will take charge from the bench. Salatovic missed the previous match due to a third yellow card but will return to the dugout alongside Dean Holden for the upcoming clash. Despite his ban, Jakirovic remains actively involved with the team, as he is still permitted to conduct pre-match and half-time discussions and communicate with his coaching staff throughout the game. Read more about Vokes Calls Time on Career After 20 Remarkable Years.
“Marko was in the stands because of three yellow cards, so he was banned,” Jakirovic remarked in an interview with Hull Live. “He will be on the bench against Norwich City on Saturday, so we will swap. I had to choose which game I would be at in the stands for. I chose that last one because Marko was in the stands, so it's better than the next one.”
As Hull City aim to end their winless streak, they will face a Norwich side equally motivated to earn points for their own aspirations. The absence of Jakirovic adds an intriguing dynamic to this crucial fixture, as both teams look to capitalise on the situation to improve their standings in the Championship.