Can The FA Cup Lift The Gloom At St James' Park?
Kinnear: "I know exactly what the FA Cup means to the people of Tyneside."The FA Cup is still a very special competition to us and, after winning it as a player (with Tottenham), I know what it means.
"I've also been to a semi-final as manager (with Wimbledon) and know what a good run in the cup can do to a club.
"It keeps everybody's spirits high.
"There aren't too many all-Premier League ties, but this is one we are up for.
"Not only that, but we want to start the New Year with a good result.
"We have two Premier League defeats to get out of our systems, but there is no fear in the camp ahead of Hull.
"December was a good month for us in terms of picking up points. We have had two defeats at Christmas but we will continue to battle on.
"There is still an upbeat feeling in the camp."