Tom Huddlestone has said that Mark Hughes has "transformed" Stoke City since taking charge of the side during the summer.
The Potters have lost just once in their last eight Premier League matches, moving them up to 10th in the table.
Ahead of Hull City's game against Stoke this weekend, the Tigers' midfielder told the club's website: "Stoke are on a good run at the moment. They're probably the only side that have managed to pull themselves away from the drop zone. I would say they're definitely safe now as a result of their recent form.
"I watched the game against Aston Villa last weekend and they fully deserved their win. Full credit goes to Mark Hughes for the way he's transformed the philosophy at the club, he's done a good job there this season.
"We know it will be difficult going to the Britannia Stadium but we're determined to go there and come away with a positive result."
Hull sit four points behind Stoke in 13th.
Sian Cowper
