Whiting sees big future in Ben Crooks

Hull FC’s Richard Whiting believes youngster Ben Crooks will have a big future in the game.

Crooks is the son of former Hull player Lee Crooks, who played for the club between 1980 and 1987.

The 18-year old Crooks scored his first Super League try against Leeds on Saturday, as well as setting up Tom Briscoe in the Black and Whites’ 34-20 win at the KC Stadium.

Whiting said: “Ben has a big future in the game if he continues to work hard, there is no doubt about that. He has got a really good attitude and that’s the most important thing.

“People are going to compare him to his dad, but I think it’s a bit unfair. Ben needs to focus on being Ben Crooks, not Lee Crooks or anybody else. But he’s got off to a really good start and I’m sure he’ll now be eager for more.”

Whiting believes the Leeds win will give the team a confidence boost as they look to challenge the top sides in Super League.

The Airlie Birds are currently fifth in Super League, three points adrift of Wigan who lie at the top of the table.

Whiting said: “Beating Leeds was a big win for us and I felt we showed what we are capable of if we turn up with the right attitude.

“Our defence was much better on Saturday and to keep Leeds down to the tries they scored was a big effort.

“There is still plenty of improvement in us, but if we are prepared to work hard and keep faith in Peter’s (Gentle) game plan, we will go into any game confident of picking up the win and able to play the style of rugby we want to.”