Hull City v Watford: Sergej Jakirović counts cost of Tigers issues ahead of Watford test

The Tigers have defied their issues to keep pace with the Championship's top two but fell flat against Stoke City in a frustrating 1-0 defeat that brought a halt to their five-match unbeaten run.

With Joe Gelhardt and Mo Belloumi among the injury absentees, and Semi Ajayi away on international duty, Hull succumbed to Robert Bozenik's only goal of the game.

The Tigers are in the market for new additions to bolster a weary squad – with Rangers midfielder Kieran Dowell among the options – but remain restricted to free transfers and loans while operating a one-in, one-out policy.

Having worked under similar constraints at former club Kayserispor, Jakirović has braced himself for another challenging window.

"This is my destiny," he said. "It's the second club where I have an embargo. We couldn't bring anybody in at Kayserispor. What we had, we had.

"Here, I'm trying to choose players who will improve our group from what is available in the market.

"I'm not satisfied because since the beginning of this season, we haven't been all together. If we are healthy, we are very dangerous, which we've shown already.

"What we have at the moment isn't our best but it gives opportunities for other players to show something on the pitch."

Cody Drameh, who has not started a game since early November, could be among the outgoings after expressing his frustration at his bit-part role.

Until any move materialises, the full-back will be asked to remain ready for selection ahead of a potential return against Watford on Sunday.

"Sometimes I'm unhappy as well but I'm still here," said Jakirović with a smile.

"We're professionals. I spoke to him two times and explained everything. I was a professional player and he is under contract for 18 months. If you want to go, someone must buy you. When I need you, you must be there and you are playing.

"He had a lower-back injury and missed three or four games. He did full training on Wednesday with the group, which is good.

"We'll see over the next few days what his plan is. I'm counting on him and everybody else."

The clash with fellow promotion hopefuls Watford offers Hull an immediate chance to bounce back in front of their fans at the MKM Stadium.

Jakirović is well aware of the challenge ahead.

"We are expecting a tough game," he said.

"I need to wait to find out who will be available for Sunday. That's the biggest problem right now.

"We will prepare and do our best with what we have in this moment. We will try to take points."