Jakirovic on team news, expectations and international break, tell me about this news in (https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/c6m278n2z2mpo)

In this BBC Sport report, Hull City manager Sergej Jakirovic spoke to the media ahead of their Premier League fixture against Newcastle United at St James’ Park.

Here are the key takeaways from his press conference:

• Team News and Injuries:

  • Nobel Mendy will miss the match under concussion protocols, though Jakirovic noted he is doing well.

  • Matt Targett is a doubt after twisting his ankle.

  • Hidemasa Morita remains sidelined, with the target for him to return to training after the first week of the international break.

  • The medical staff is being cautious with Charlie Hughes, hoping he can rejoin group training within two weeks.

• International Break and Friendly Match:

  • Hull City will see numerous players leave on international duty. While Jakirovic expressed pride in the call-ups, he acknowledged it will make for a busy schedule.

  • To keep the remaining squad sharp, the club has scheduled a friendly against Sheffield United on October 1.

  • Addressing Oli McBurnie’s recall to the Scotland squad, Jakirovic expressed his pride and emphasized his main hope that all international players return healthy.

• Expectations and Current Form:

  • Reflecting on Hull’s unbeaten start, including an away draw against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, Jakirovic stated the squad has proved they can compete at the Premier League level. However, he expects a difficult challenge against Newcastle, particularly as the Magpies look to bounce back from a loss against Leeds.

  • When asked about silencing critics, he remarked that there will always be doubters, but the team is focused on their own style and continuous improvement.

  • He stressed keeping his squad grounded, emphasizing in team meetings that their core objective remains securing survival in the top flight, regardless of their strong early points tally.