The opening game of the 2016-17 Premier League season sees reigning champs Leicester City travel to newly-promoted Hull City (Watch live, 7:30 a.m. ET on CNBC and online via NBCSports.com).
Following a dream season for Claudio Ranieri and his players, all eyes will be on them to see if they can repeat their incredible feat of winning their first-ever top-flight title in their 132-year history.
With Champions League action this season too, it could be tough for the Foxes to replicate their success.
As for Hull, there is no sense of euphoria despite sealing promotion back to the PL following relegation two years ago. Managerless after Steve Bruce walked out, they haven’t brought in any players and Mike Phelan is in charge on a caretaker basis. Hull have just 13 senior players fit for the opener as their owners are also mulling over a sale of the club in September. Far from ideal.
In team news Hull start Jake Livermore at center back due to their injury woes, while Ranieri goes with a familiar lineup as Robert Huth completes his ban so new signing Hernandez replaces him. Ahmed Musa and Demarai Gray also start in attacking positions.
LINEUPS
Hull City: Jakupovic; Robertson, Davies, Livermore, Elmohamady; Huddlestone, Meyler, Clucas, Snodgrass; Hernandez, Diomande
Leicester City: Schmeichel; Simpson, Morgan, Hernandez, Fuchs; Gray, King, Drinkwater, Mahrez; Vardy, Musa