Keep the faith!
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HULL City caretaker boss Nick Barmby wants to open contract talks with Robert Koren to ensure the midfielder remains at the KC Stadium.
Koren has been in inspired form in recent weeks and was again the hero of the hour when snatching a late winner in the Tigers' 2-1 victory over Leicester on Saturday.
​Robert Koren celebrates scoring the winner against Leicester
Robert Koren celebrates scoring the winner against Leicester
The Slovenian's current deal expires at the end of the season, but Barmby has made it clear efforts will be made to keep him with City.
"Whether it's as a manager or a player, you want Robbie Koren to stay," Barmby told the Mail.
"We'll definitely be sitting down and hopefully addressing that.
"Robbie has been fantastic since he's been here, he's a great fella and a great professional. More importantly, he's a match-winner."
Having scored five goals already this term, with only Matty Fryatt netting more, Koren has underlined his significant value to the Tigers.
All-important strikes against Portsmouth, Watford and Leicester at the KC Stadium have brought an additional six points to City's tally.
The midfield talisman will again take on a pivotal creative role when the Tigers host Birmingham tomorrow night and Barmby knows he boasts a man in form.
"In the past he's played out wide in the majority of games," said Barmby.
"He can play out there because he's what I'd call a proper footballer. He can play in numerous positions.
"But he can influence games more from a central role and we're reaping the rewards of him coming inside.
"You can see what he brings to the team on the ball and his work-rate has been very good as well.
"Technically, he's a very clever footballer who causes teams problems when he drifts into space.
"It's no coincidence that since he's drifted in centrally we've seen the real Robbie Koren."
With only limited options at his disposal, Barmby is unlikely to change his side, who could move up to sixth in the Championship with a win tomorrow..
The City ranks will soon be bolstered by Richard Garcia and Seyi Olofinjana, though, as they continue their comebacks from knee surgery.
City hope to arrange a behind-closed-doors game this week for the pair and that could pave the way for Garcia to return either at Coventry this weekend or at home to Millwall on December 17.
"They both did well in the game last week," said Barmby.
"The intensity of the game was good, which was pleasing, because you need to up fitness levels.
"They're looking good and working hard. They benefited a great deal from it and have another game this week.
"Garc will probably come into contention after that, but Olly probably needs another game or two."
With Garcia still only on a short-term contract, Barmby has assured the Australian will be urged to sign a fresh deal.
"The main thing is that Garc gets himself fit," he said.
"But we'll definitely sit down and address that."