Tony Smith not taking chances on Lachlan Coote

Hull KR Head Coach Tony Smith has hinted full-back Lachlan Coote will not play in Friday’s trip to Salford.

Coote had only just returned to the side after picking up a hamstring injury in round one. He came off during the Robins’ game against St Helens last week after suffering a fresh setback.

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Smith said he would rather err on the side of caution with Coote, even if he tells him that he is fine to play.

He said: I don’t know about Lachlan, I think it’ll be a push. Well, put it this way, I’m not sure it’s a risk I want to take.

“He might try to convince me otherwise but I’d rather err on the side of caution.”

When asked about whether or not he was rushed back, Smith added: “I don’t know. I think all you can do is go on medical advice and how players are feeling.

“I don’t know whether there’s ever a right time, or a completely safe time. I’m not sure with Lachlan, I’m not sure that we went too early or not. I can’t tell you.”

Better news on Ben Crooks, says Tony Smith

Despite that setback, there is better news on Ben Crooks. Crooks has not featured for the Robins in 2022 as he recovered from shoulder surgery in the off-season.

However, Smith said he is unlikely to feature against Salford on Friday.

He added: “I think he’s available for selection this weekend. It’s unlikely I’d throw him in on the back of nothing. Not unless we had to- I know we’d go out there and have a crack for us and put his body on the line. We’ve got a few like that in our squad.”

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