James Chester admits the whole of the Hull squad are hurt by their recent run of poor performances as they continue to battle for survival.

The Tigers have endured a tumultuous campaign and with six games to play, currently find themselves sat 17th in the table, with them only out of the drop zone on goal difference.

No wins in their last six outings have also given the impression that they are in freefall and with matches against Liverpool, Arsenal, Tottenham and Manchester United all to come, their opportunities to pick up points look extremely limited.

It means Saturday’s trip to Crystal Palace takes on even more importance but having had last weekend off due to the FA Cup semi-finals, they should at least be fresh for the game at Selhurst Park.

Chester accepts that the whole squad have been hurt by their recent slump but believes that with the continued support of their loyal fans, the Tigers can climb out of danger.

“It’s certainly disheartening when you’re not winning games because we all want to stay in the Premier League,” he is quoted as saying by the Hull Daily Mail. “I certainly don’t want to go back to the Championship so we won’t be giving up yet.

“We feel the pain with the supporters. We don’t want to be in this situation, but if we can all stick together and stay in this division this season, I don’t think we’re far away from having a really good team here.”

Hull are the current 4.00 underdogs for their trip to South London, with the draw at 3.20 and Alan Pardew’s in-form Eagles the 2.05 favourites.