Hull’s apprehension over Brady’s injury adds to Bruce’s problems

Two key players from last term, centre-back James Chester and midfielder Robbie Koren, are sidelined for two months with a torn hamstring and broken foot respectively.

Now winger Robbie Brady, who has made an outstanding start to 2013-14 – may require surgery to clear up a hernia problem.

Bruce said: “He’s (Brady) got a bit of a problem, but whether or not he needs an operation, we’ll see. It’s touch and go at the moment.

“The last thing you need after just coming up from the Championship is injuries to key players nd we have already got two key men ruled out for lengthy spells.

“Losing these lads is a big blow, but we have just got to get on with it and hope we don’t have any more bad luck on the injury front.”

One selection boost for Bruce ahead of tomorrow’s home game with West Ham sees Maynor Figueroa available again after missing last weekend’s victory at Newcastle United on compassionate grounds. The Honduran international’s son suffered an accident, which thankfully has not proved too serious.

Bruce added: “Thankfully, touch wood, everything is okay. Maynor is fine too. Had it been any worse it might have been different, but his mind is clear because his boy is all right. It’s a big relief for him.”

Bruce is facing a quandary over whether to include Egyptian loan striker Gedo in his squad.

The forward came off the bench to make his second debut for the club in Tuesday’s Capital One Cup win over Huddersfield Town – which saw the Tigers book a fourth-round date with Spurs.

He is still lacking match sharpness although Bruce could yet find a place for him.

Bruce added: “He’s training but, as we speak, I’ve got a squad of 21 and I can only pick 18.

“He’s got a chance, but I still think he needs games. He’s been out for a long time.

“Two or three games under his belt would be ideal, but he’s training and doing okay.”