Hull FC boss Tony Smith pleased to tie down young trio to new deals

Hull FC coach Tony Smith has expressed his delight at seeing young trio Will Gardiner, Nick Staveley and Zach Jebson sign contract extensions.

Gardiner and Staveley have both signed new two-year contracts, whilst Jebson has penned a one-year deal, with the club having the option to extend by a further year.

Forward Gardiner has played six games for Hull’s first team since making his debut last year, scoring one try.

Meanwhile, forward Staveley made his first team debut in their Challenge Cup sixth round win over Hull on Sunday afternoon. He has also spent time in the Championship on dual-registration with Newcastle Thunder this term.

Smith said: “Will is really professional for a young man.

“He’s got a lot of work to do to get up to the Super League standard, but he’s shown the right attitude for it.

“He’s got a hunger for it now he’s had a taste of Super League. His best years are yet to come and we’re really happy that he’ll be staying with us to continue his development.

“Nick has improved a lot throughout the season, both in terms of his attitude and his fitness levels. When I arrived at the club, he was way behind in terms of his fitness.

“But he’s knuckled down and got his fitness levels in great shape and that’s been great to see. He’s another of these young players who’s been a pleasure to work with, so we’re all delighted that he has signed his contract extension, and it was nice to give Nick some game time in the Challenge Cup at the weekend.”

Tony Smith predicts bright future for Zach Jebson

Jebson is yet to make his senior debut, but is the third Hull player to put pen to paper on a new deal this week.

He has been training with the first team throughout 2023 so far, and Smith has predicted a bright future for the young back-rower.

Smith added: “How long it will take, I’m not sure, but Zach Jebson is definitely one for the future. Knowing the kid like I do, we might not be waiting all that long.

“He’s so inquisitive about his role, asking questions about his job all of the time and he’s a terrific athlete on top of all of that.

“Zach is an absolute pleasure to coach – he’s got great ambition and a great attitude, so he deserves his opportunity to stay with us longer.”

Next up for Hull is a trip to the AJ Bell Stadium on Sunday afternoon to take on Salford (3pm).

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