Radford hails unbelievable progress of Matongo

Hull coach Lee Radford has hailed the unbelievable progress of forward Masi Matongo.

Matongo, 21, signed a new three-year deal with the Airlie Birds on Wednesday to cap a remarkable rise.

The Zimbabwean-born prop has made four Super League appearances this term and was recently named in the England Knights squad.

Radford told the club’s official website: “His development over the last two years has been unbelievable.

“If you told him two years ago that he’d be named in the England Knights Performance Squad, start a Super League game and sign a contract extension with Hull. he wouldn’t believe you.

“That alone speaks volumes of the bloke and he’s deserved the opportunity to sign a three-year extension with us.”

Matongo was spotted playing for community club Norland Sharks and was brought in to the club’s academy set-up.

He made his Super League debut against Wigan back in 2015 but had to wait until 2017 for further chances, when he came off the bench nine times.