Hull City have been one of several yo-yo clubs over the past decade or so and it looks as though they could be about to take the Premier League plunge once more.

Steve Bruce has been at the helm for several seasons now and the former defender clearly knows what it takes to get his side out of the troublesome Championship. Hull, having just been drubbed 4-0 by Arsenal, will be able to fully focus on their league campaign and continue to pile the pressure on Middlesbrough and Burnley for the automatic promotion spots.

The Tigers have had a slight dip in form of late, only winning one of their last four league matches, but the unpredictable nature of the Championship gives an opportunity to any side who can put together a few consecutive wins.

If Hull fail to take advantage of their games in hand, they will be left one point behind Brighton as the four horse race for the top two spots is heats up.

With all of this in mind, we bring you the biggest fixtures in Hull's battle for a Premier League return..

'Boro clash

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Given the honour of Friday night football, Hull against Middlesbrough is going to be one of the biggest games of the Football League season.

As both sides chase the fame and riches of Premier League football once again, Hull know they simply cannot lose this one of they want to achieve automatic promotion.

Away to Derby

Will Hughes

Derby, who are four points behind Hull having played two more matches, might just fancy their chances of making a late charge for automatic promotion.

The Rams have seen their form fluctuate through much of this season and will disappointed to have won only three of their past 10 Championship fixtures.

Off to the Home Counties

Football - Reading v Huddersfield Town - Sky Bet Football League Championship - The Madejski Stadium - 14/15 - 19/8/14
Reading's Aaron Kuhl 
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Reading's play-off hopes have been hit hard by their poor form of late, as they, like Derby, have struggled over their past ten games.

The Royals have struggled for goals lately and could put their dodgy league form down to a distracting FA Cup run.

This fixture, despite Reading's league position, will be a challenge for Hull. The Madejski can be an intimidating place to play at and Reading have the quality to pose a threat to any side on their day.

Yorkshire derby

Wolverhampton Wanderers v Leeds United - Sky Bet Football League Championship

Derby games will always be fiercely competed, no matter what the circumstances.

Saturday April 23rd sees Leeds visit Hull and, although Leeds are safe from relegation, their Yorkshire rivals are sure to want to upset Hull's promotion party.

Bristol City fighting for their lives

Bristol City

Bristol City are one of the weaker sides that Hull face in the remaining fixtures, but the newly-promoted west country side will be fighting for their lives and scrapping for every point.

Whereas other fixtures may see Hull go against teams with little to play for, Bristol City will be one of the most competitive teams when they visit Bruce's side.