RL Today: Brett Hodgson on half-back options & Jai Field delight with return

Steven Hughes 24 Feb 2022 7:30 AM

Brett Hodgson on half-back options

Hull FC Head Coach Brett Hodgson has not made a decision yet as to who will replace the suspended Luke Gale in the halves. (Hull Live)

Hodgson told Hull Live: “We have many options there of which Ben (McNamara) is one, we’ve had a chat about what role he could play in this period and as coaches, we’ll make that decision leading into the game. We’ve got a number of options and fit bodies there at the moment.”

Wakefield star won’t be rushed back

Wakefield coach Willie Poching has said he does not expect to be without Liam Hood for long, but will not rush the hooker back (Wakefield Express)

Poching told the Wakefield Express: “He is a tough hombre and he will do everything possible to get back sooner than what the physios are diagnosing, I am sure about that.”

Joey Leilua injury update

Featherstone Head Coach Brian McDermott has said the club are not rushing Joey Leilua back from his hamstring injury. (Halifax Courier)

McDermott told Halifax Courier: “He wants to play, he is really keen to play and we are really keen to get him on the field but whenever there is still some residue of the injury, we are not going to force him into these (muddy) conditions.”

Bradford man nearing return

New signing Elliot Hall is nearing fitness again for Bradford, and could return for their Challenge Cup tie at London Broncos. (Telegraph & Argus)

Hall told Telegraph & Argus: “I didn’t get chance to play in pre-season, which was unfortunate, but while I don’t want to jinx anything, I’m hoping to feature in some capacity this weekend, either against Leeds (for the reserves) or London.”

Jai Field happy to bounce back

Wigan utility back Jai Field has spoken of his delight at playing again after an injury-hit 2021. (Wigan Today)

Field told Wigan Today: “Last year was a bit traumatic so it is pleasing to be back playing some games, it was frustrating. I just wanted to get back. For someone like myself who hit very high speeds, it took me a while to get the mental side back, to trust myself to open up.”

Super League squad news

The squads have been announced for both of Friday’s Super League Fixtures.

Hull KR v Castleford: Hull KR v Castleford: Coote misses out as Massey returns for Tigers

St Helens v Wakefield: St Helens v Wakefield: Saints unchanged as Miller and Fifita return for Trinity

Birthdays

Former Great Britain winger Gareth Raynor turns 44 today. (24th February).

Also celebrating: Featherstone forward Adam Cuthbertson (37), former Warrington and Wakefield forward Ben Harrison (34) and Hull KR forward George King (27).