Hull City are working with renowned surgeon Dr Richard Steadman over Jimmy Bullard's knee scare.

The concerns surround the same knee that kept him sidelined for 16 months at Fulham, but manager Phil Brown stressed the latest injury is an unrelated problem.

Taking no chances, City have sent scans of his knee problem to renowned US-based specialist Dr Richard Steadman.

Brown is hoping they will show no need for an operation and a positive diagnosis may even allow Bullard to return to action at Chelsea this weekend.

He told the Hull Daily Mail: "Jimmy's had the scans and they've been transported over to America for an opinion on them.

"Jimmy got a relationship going with the guy and to get it from him would probably ease the tension."