The possibility of adding another player is still open to the Black and Whites.
John Cartwright has remained open to hiring new players for Hull FC, but he will only “act” on the market in response to what occurs to their present team this season and what would bolster their lineup. The goal is to use the salary cap space available to the Black and Whites, but there’s a catch.
‘Injuries, suspensions, and the like’ will dictate how the team uses that space and resource, according to the head coach, who has stated that Hull is ‘always striving to improve’ their team, looking at solutions where they feel stretched or short.
Keeping tabs on the situations at other clubs, Hull are recruiting on two strands: now and the future, with an eye on 2026 and beyond. The short-term will be based on the injuries and suspensions they pick up, with the long-term based on who retires/moves on and what experience they need to replace. It’s a process that is always ongoing.
We haven’t rushed it and we won’t rush it right now. We will take action when we find someone who can strengthen our team available, but the majority of that brief hiring process is predicated on suspensions, injuries, and similar issues.
“The long term is a little different, particularly given the age of our squad. Some people are nearing the conclusion of their careers, and you’re constantly thinking ahead a few years. In the short term, it just depends on who is available, but you can hire players a year from now, so we’ll likely need to consider replacing players by the end of next year.”
One area of immediate Hull FC recruiting following Jordan Abdull’s departure was initially believed to be in the halves. However, Cartwright is backing Cade Cust to make a fist of it alongside Aidan Sezer this season after a fine audition at Catalans Dragons last Friday night. Richie Myler said last month that a forward or a ’14-type’ player may instead tempt Hull.
The words “Cade was super,” stated Cartwright. “Every week, you need your halves to be in control like that. He’s always on the ball and will seize the opportunity if it presents itself, but you won’t always score two tries and be held accountable for another. I’m really happy for him. He’s someone I’ve known for ages. He’s a very good player, Cade, and I’m sure he’s going to have a consistent year for us.
Additionally, Cartwright commended Sezer’s commanding performance, saying, “He led us. His kicking technique is crucial. In addition to getting us out of difficulty, he assisted on a few tries. To get the ball out of their own end, he put them in some difficult situations. We brought him here in part because of his great kicking ability.
Leave a Reply