Peter Gentle exits Hull FC

Hull FC have parted company with head coach Peter Gentle.

Gentle, 47, joined the Black and Whites from Wests Tigers in 2011, but after a season of failing to deliver on the biggest stage, his tenure has been cut short with two years still remaining on his contract.

The writing has been on the wall for Gentle since the Airlie Birds’ season was brought to an abrupt end with the record 76-18 play-off defeat to Huddersfield last week, and having already overseen a Challenge Cup final defeat to Wigan earlier in 2013, the Australian has been removed from his position.

The former St George half-back had this to say: “In the past 24 months, the club has made significant strides in performance, training facilities, recruitment and player development at all levels, making the top six in each campaign, and reaching the Challenge Cup Final at Wembley this season.

“Injuries, including long-term absences, have hampered our plans on the field, especially in the Cup Final and the final play-off match this season.

“An outstanding memory will be the passionate support of the faithful fans for myself and my family, who have been made so welcome, and we wish the club all the best for the future.”

Gentle’s assistant Lee Radford is currently the favourite to succeed him at the KC Stadium.