On the offensive again

The nature of Hull City's performance against Manchester United suggests that attack really is City's best form of defence.

Phil Brown picked a 4-4-2, put pace and power up front real strength in the centre. And this against the supertalented Premier League champions. Surely another formation based on offence has to be on the cards at Bolton Wanderers, comparatively a less strenuous breed of opponent?

There may still be changes in personnel, not least because it is unlikely that George Boateng can manage two games in three days. Paul McShane may be fit again and may be more conducive a right back for a tight away game than the more forward-thinking - and gap-leaving - Bernard Mendy.

Given that Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur and then Manchester United again represent our next hidings to nothing on the Premier League stage after the visit to the Reebok, one would not just hope but actively expect Brown to pick a team designed to attack, pressurise and damned well win. If he plays the cautious card that has blighted too many awaydays already this season, he can expect to have his future called into question. Up to him now.