Grant McCann focusing only on those committed to Hull City and still hopeful on Mallik Wilks

Captain Eric Lichaj, vice-captain Jackson Irvine and Stephen Kingsley's contracts are up on June 30 and unlike a host of their team-mates, the trio have decided not to sign short-term deals that would enable them to play in the all of the Tigers' remaining nine Championship fixtures.

Meanwhile, Peterborough United loanee Marcus Maddison has also opted against remaining at City with his contract with his parent club due to expire at the end of the month.

McCann, however, is focused only on those who are committed to the cause, and are sticking around in a bid to help the club preserve their second-tier status.

"I would rather focus on the nine that have signed, the nine that we've got committed to the football club for the next nine games," the Northern Irishman said.

"It's a testament to them that they want to help and fight for the club.

"So we'll concentrate on the nine that have stayed, more so than the four that haven't and we'll look to get the best out of those, along with the rest of the group."

The nine players McCann refers to are Kevin Stewart, Dan Batty, Jon Toral, Angus MacDonald, Robbie McKenzie, plus loanees Josh Bowler, Matt Pennington, Herbie Kane and Mallik Wilks.

The situation regarding the latter is a curious one.

Parent club Barnsley announced earlier this week that they would not extend winger Wilks' stay with Hull until the end of the season, meaning that at this stage, he is only eligible to play in two more games - Charlton at home on Saturday, then Birmingham away.

McCann is however hopeful that it might yet be possible to reach an agreement with the Tykes to enable Wilks, who is reportedly keen to remain a Tiger, to stick around past June 30.

"The club are in good conversation with Barnsley over that," the City chief added.

"Mallik was in good form before the shutdown, he had scored three goals in eight or nine games. He's a threat.

"We have an option in Mallik's contract which goes on to June 30, I believe, so I know the club are in discussions to see if there's anything we can do.

"But, at this present time Mallik is focused on these two games coming up. He understands his roles and responsibilities if he's called upon at the weekend."