Hull City have made a strong start to the Premier League season, collecting seven points from their first three games. The newly promoted side sit third in the table, just two points behind leaders Manchester City, after a 0-0 draw with Aston Villa at the MKM Stadium on Saturday. BBC Sport Football first reported the story.
This solid beginning is built on a formidable defence. Head coach Sergej Jakirovic, who signed a two-year contract extension on Friday, has seen his team keep clean sheets in all three matches. Only Charlton in 1998-99 and Huddersfield Town in 2017-18 had previously achieved that feat after promotion. The three-man unit of John Egan, Semi Ajayi, and Nobel Mendy has been key, conceding zero goals so far. You can see the full defensive statistics on our stats page.
How does this start compare to other promoted teams?
Historical data provides context for Hull's promising opening. Since 2003-04, only West Ham in 2023-24 (27%) have recorded a lower average possession figure over their first three matches than Hull's 29% this season. Yet, the points are what matter. Only one of the previous 12 promoted sides have survived after keeping three clean sheets initially, which was Southampton in 2012-13.
There is also a warning from recent history. Wolves in 2011-12, West Brom in 2017-18, and Leeds United in 2022-23 were all relegated despite also taking seven points from their first three games. However, that represents a small minority. Only 4% of the 78 teams to have collected seven points after three games have ultimately gone down. The current standings show Hull firmly in the top half.
What was the backdrop to this season?
The club's position is a dramatic turnaround from last season's brush with disaster. Hull avoided relegation to League One only on goal difference. Their place in the Championship play-offs was secured by Oli McBurnie's last-gasp winner against Middlesbrough, and they then defeated a Millwall side that had finished ten points above them.
A summer of significant investment followed, with 18 new signings arriving for around £150 million. Midfielder Tim Iroegbunam was a key addition from Everton for £22 million. Jakirovic has noted the challenge of integrating so many players, stating the big problem was "who didn't have a pre-season." The squad depth is being tested early, with Charlie Hughes, Darko Gyabi, Jack Butland, and Óscar Zambrano currently sidelined, as listed on our injuries page.
What are the targets for survival?
The immediate objective is clear. John Egan highlighted the importance of the fast start. "The start is important. We got the win the first day [against Manchester United] and I think that gave everyone confidence," the defender said. The club's stated goal is to collect 38-40 points to secure their Premier League status.
Manager Sergej Jakirovic is keeping expectations in check. "No, of course it is early," he said when asked about longer-term prospects. The focus now shifts to maintaining this form. Their next challenge is a tough away fixture against Chelsea, who are fourth in the table, on September 12. You can view all upcoming matches in our fixtures schedule.
