Joe Lovodua ‘buy of the season’ claims Hull team-mate

Jamie Shaul believes team-mate Joe Lovodua has been the ‘buy of the season’ for the 2022 Super League campaign.

Hull signed the Fiji international hooker ahead of the current campaign on a one-year deal.

He made the move from South Sydney Rabbitohs, and his current club will be hoping to tie him down beyond 2022 following an impressive season so far.

29-year-old Shaul has praised his team-mate following his versatility, having featured in both the halves and at hooker this season due to injuries and suspensions.

Shaul said: “Joe Lovodua has done really well. He’s signed for us as a hooker and I reckon he’s played in nearly every position but. And he’s probably played to the best of his ability in them other positions. 

“He’s probably the buy of the season in Super League to be fair.

“Joe has been great for us. He brings a spark and some energy. 

“It’s not easy swapping positions. It’s something I definitely couldn’t do it. So for him to do it and play as well as he does in different positions, I take my hat off to him.”  

Hull youngster to get chance

Lovodua lined up alongside Luke Gale in the halves in their 4-0 defeat at Warrington, and could feature there again against Leeds following the injury to the skipper. 

Youngster Jacob Hookem is expected to start for the Black and Whites against the Rhinos this Saturday.

“He’s been good,” head coach Brett Hodgson commented on the youngster.  

“Jacob is a busy kid and he likes getting around and asking questions and he’s good on the field. 

“He’s got good communication and he’s still learning obviously. 

“We’re not expecting Jacob Hookem to be the best version of himself at 19-years-old, but he is someone that we have high hopes for and he’ll get the chance this weekend.”

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