Houghton takes over as Hull captain

Former Super League Man of Steel Danny Houghton has been named the new captain of Hull, following the retirement of Gareth Ellis.

Houghton, 29, is celebrating his testimonial season this year and will make his 300th career appearance then Hull take on Huddersfield on the opening day of the season.

Prop Scott Taylor will step up to be vice-captain.

Coach Lee Radford said: “With Danny, he’s a natural successor of Gareth Ellis, because his leadership traits always come to the forefront when he’s on the field of play.

“He know’s what’s required of him as he has undertaken the vice-captain role very professionally in recent years.

“Obviously, it’s taken a while for me to announce this year’s captain, but that was simply down to the fact that we still had players coming through the door earlier this month after playing at the World Cup.”

Houghton added: “Just captaining this squad alone is probably one of the biggest honours of my career, but to lead the side out on a stage like the Challenge Cup Final or the Grand Final, it would be unbelievable.

“I’ve had to wait a long time for the announcement – Radders has kept us waiting – but it’s just a dream come true.

“There are so many natural leaders in this squad, so to be named as the captain of the club is a real honour.”