Brett Hodgson has previewed this evening’s clash against Wigan Warriors, explaining that this evening’s clash at the DW Stadium will be a strong indicator as to where the Black & Whites are at in 2021.
Hull and Wigan’s unbeaten starts to the season are on the line this evening in the Betfred Super League Round 5 clash, with Hull hoping to continue their best start to a league campaign since 2009.
Speaking in his pre-match press conference, brought to you in assocation with Jacuzzi®, Hodgson said: “We got a bit more work done this week, with the extra day in preparation compare to the short turnaround against Wakefield. The boys have looked fresh at the back end of this week.
“For us, we’ve spoken about how we can continue to improve and evolve as a team this week. Obviously this is going to be a big test for us, so it should be a good indicator for us as to where we are at as a group.
“We feel we’ve got ways to unlock that Wigan defence. All teams have deficiencies, some teams less than others, but we’ll go there with our plan and we’re confident that we can execute that.”
However, the Airlie Birds will be without Josh Bowden this evening, with Hodgson confirming the forward will be out of action for up to six weeks with an elbow injury sustained against Wakefield.
“He hyperextended his elbow, and he has a fracture and some ligament damaged to the head of the radium in his forearm.
“Unfortunately, it looks like he is going to be sidelined for upwards of six weeks. We don’t know the full extent yet – he is due to see a specialist on Friday, but its just one of those incidents that occurs in the line of combat.
Hodgson also provided an update on the fitness of Josh Reynolds and Manu Ma’u, adding: “Josh and Manu could potentially feature next week, but we need to tick plenty of boxes before then.
“At the moment, we haven’t thought about that game though. They’re recovering as planned, and the investment in what they’ve needed to do has been excellent.”
A new addition to Hull FC’s 21-man squad was seen this week, with 17-year old athletic winger Harvey Barron getting his first call-up to the senior squad.
One of several Hull FC Academy players who has been training with the first-team squad during 2021, while Barron isn’t expected to feature this evening, Hodgson explained that being named in the squad and experiencing the build-up to a game is a reward for his efforts.
“Harvey is a tall, quick outside-back. We wanted him into the squad for him to have the experience of what it is like to prepare for a Super League game.
“Unless something major happens before the game, he isn’t going to play, but it’s good for him to get some recognition of the hard work he has been doing. He is one we have our eye on for the future for sure.
“He comes from a football background and has only been in our system for a couple of years, so his progression from day one until now has been huge. We’re hopeful he has big things ahead of him.”
Hodgson also commented on the selection of Jordan Lane and Joe Cator in the England Knights squad this week.
“They both deserve it. They have both been excellent for us so far this season and work tirelessly in pre-season,” he added.
“They’re always looking to improve their own games. it is a testament for us as a club that they’re named in that squad – we’re really proud of them.
“They have the ability to step up to that senior squad in the future, but it’s great that they’re being recognised for their performances at the moment.
“You need a successful squad for individuals to get recognition like that.”
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