Barmby Praises Tigers Defence

Nick Barmby was full of praise for the Tigers' defensive efforts in Saturday's 0-0 draw with Portsmouth.

Barmby, who was handed a first league start since early January, admitted that City were scrappy in the final third but felt their efforts at the other end warranted a clean sheet.

"Both teams were scrappy in the final third and we were disappointed that we didn't create a great deal of chances," said Barmby.

"But our defence was magnificent and our desire and attitude was spot on again.

"Michael Turner and Kamil Zayatte were up against Peter Crouch, an England striker who is in form and scoring goals, and they did well against him. Matt Duke came up with a clean sheet and that is another positive.

"Picking up a point at this stage of the season is another plus, especially with the bottom three all losing.

"We didn't really capitalise when they went down to ten men, but Portsmouth defended well and they are a big team. A draw was maybe a fair result."

Having suffered a broken nose following a clash with Peter Crouch on Saturday, Barmby shows the battle scars of his efforts to help maintain City's Premier League status, something he has immense pride in.

"Being in the Premier League carries a massive sense of pride, especially with me coming from Hull.

"That is why it is imperative we stay in this league. If we stay in the league, hopefully we will stay in it for a long time.

"That will bring the profile of the club up and allow the youngsters to see Premier League players week in, week out. That will improve their mentality and hopefully we can bring a few more Hull lads through."