Hull City and Everton's seasons may be drawing to a close in the Premier League on Sunday, but the Tigers still have plenty to work for.
For Steve Bruce to get his side safe with games to spare was a fantastic achievement, but the season doesn't end today. With an FA Cup Final on the horizon, players can't afford to drop off now, or they could play their way out of a Wembley appearance.
Psychologically, under normal circumstances, it's difficult to get yourselves up for a "nothing" game like this. However, City's players do still have the carrot of the final and they will want to ensure they impress today to stand a chance of facing Arsenal next weekend.
City are without a win since the 5-3 victory over Sheffield United in the FA Cup semi-final, and it's vital that the season ends on a high before the return trip down south.
I've been unfortunate enough to play in these kind of "nothing" matches in my career. As is usually the case, I fear today's game will be played at a slow pace, and that will only suit Everton and frustrate City.
If the Tigers' defenders go into tackles half-heartedly against Roberto Martinez's men, they could run the risk of injury and missing out against Arsenal. I'm sure the likes of Curtis Davies and Alex Bruce won't want to let that happen, but the FA Cup final will always be in the back of their minds, unfortunately.
The same must go for the strikers, whoever Bruce decides to pick. With Shane Long and Nikica Jelavic cup-tied, it would make sense to start with Matty Fryatt against Everton, especially after his contribution as a substitute at Manchester United on Tuesday. He must get as many minutes under his belt as possible before what now looks like his guaranteed spot at Wembley.
It would certainly be nice for him to get a goal to get into the rhythm of scoring, following his nice strike at Old Trafford, but we all know Arsenal will be a completely different kettle of fish to Everton.
Martinez has had an excellent debut season up at Goodison Park, and, knowing him outside of the game, he is a fantastic bloke to work with. It's clear to see why the Everton players love playing under him. He took on a tough job after David Moyes left for Manchester United, but it seems Martinez has had the last laugh over his predecessor.
For me, he's pulled out two of the best signings of the season, both of whom came on loan. Bringing in Romelu Lukaku from Chelsea and Gareth Barry from Manchester City, saw him strengthen both up front and in midfield and it's paid off.
Everton have been unlucky not to grab a Champions League spot, but they've improved on last season by moving up a place in the league standings. For me, that's enough.
I've always liked the way Everton play, but they've changed for the better under Martinez. I still hope City get one over on him today, though, because it would set them up nicely ahead of the trip to Wembley.
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