West Brom v Hull City: Bruce in ‘wholesale changes’ as Tigers eye Wembley return

The Tigers could field an entirely different starting XI to the one that faced Newcastle United in the weekend’s 2-2 draw.

Hatem Ben Arfa will come in for his first start in Hull colours following his deadline day loan move, while others likely to be drafted in include Yannick Sagbo, Sone Aluko and Steve Harper.

For Bruce, the trip to West Brom will bring memories of last January’s third round trip to Middlesbrough in the FA Cup when City triumphed 2-0 despite making nine changes.

He said: “The one thing about having a squad of players is that I have got to encourage them to play. Otherwise, I am going to have a disgruntled lot.

“There will be wholesale changes. The people who need to play will play. It’s an ideal time for those to play.

“We did it last year in the FA Cup at Middlesbrough and people bemoaned us for making so many changes but I do honestly believe it is the right way to be.

“That is not to say I won’t pick a team that can’t go and get a result.”

Gaston Ramirez is not available after already appearing in the competition for Southampton but Bruce is adamant that City can still progress to the fourth round.

He added: “You need a little bit of luck along the way and play well but we’re capable of going to West Brom and getting a result.

“We know that but it will be difficult because they’re a Premier League team.

“I have read that Alan will take a similar approach to us. We are not belittling the competition but when you carry a 25-man squad, like we all do, then you have got to play these players or what’s the point of them being there?

“It would be nice to have another run. It was a great experience for everyone concerned last year.

“The FA Cup final feels like a distant memory already but what a great day for us all. If we can have another day out like that we will all be happy.”

With City out of the Europa League, tonight is a rare chance for those not in the Premier League starting XI to get some football.

Bruce added: “The opportunity is there for everyone to see. There are people who have got the jersey at the moment and it’s up to others to train and play well to change that.

“There is no better chance than on the big stage. If they play well then they come into contention.”

Last six games: West Bromwich Albion DDDLLW, Hull City LLLDWD.

Referee: P Dowd (Staffordshire).

Last time: West Bromwich Albion 1 Hull City 1; December 21, 2013; Premier League.