SEYI Olofinjana believes Hull City now have the platform to pull clear of relegation trouble after climbing out of the Premier League's bottom three.

A valuable weekend win over Manchester City catapulted the Tigers up four places to 14th – their highest position since November.

And buoyed by their run of three games without defeat Olofinjana says City will travel to Blackburn Rovers tomorrow night with a new sense of confidence.

"We will keep fighting and scrapping but it's so tight that getting four points in two games can make so much difference," said Olofinjana.

"Once you get out of that zone you can breathe a little bit and you concentrate more about staying out of the relegation zone.

"When you're in there it becomes very difficult and everyone is on your case. It can affect you mentally.

"So long as we keep scrapping away like we have, we'll be fine. It's football and if you put in a shift, you can always get something."

Olofinjana made his return to the City line-up on Saturday as a second-half substitute after being absent throughout January at the African Cup of Nations.

The 29-year-old Nigerian has since seen his midfield berth taken by the impressive rookie Tom Cairney.

Starring in the last three City fixtures – draws with Wolves and Chelsea and a win over Manchester City – Cairney looks set to retain his place at Ewood Park tomorrow.

And while Olofinjana is delighted to see the 19-year-old taking centre stage, he wants to win back his place in the side.

"Bring it on, that is what it's all about," said Olofinjana. "I've heard so much about Tom Cairney but I had no doubts over his ability from my first day here.

"He's got everything going for him. He's a tall lad and playing in the middle of the park he can tackle and pass the ball. He's got energy as well – what more do you need in a midfield player?

"He is getting his chance and I am very, very pleased for him and if he's going to keep doing well for the team then so be it.

"He's got fantastic ability and he just needed that chance for someone to say 'come on, you can do this'.

"The manager has given the opportunity and he has taken it with both hands. It's wonderful."

City complete a hectic run of four games inside 11 days when travelling to Blackburn tomorrow.

Another victory would put them level with Sam Allardyce's side but without an away win in more than 11 months, the Tigers will have their work cut out at Ewood Park.

However, Olofinjana believes a buoyant team spirit in the City ranks can be the difference.

He added: "The atmosphere is fantastic in the camp, the lads are all buzzing and looking forward to games.

"You've got to start somewhere and we have been playing well. We are taking steps in the right direction."