Hull FC eye a double return as two forwards edge closer to Wakefield clash
But here’s where it gets interesting: Hull FC are lining up a potential back-to-full depth just in time for Thursday’s Super League outing at Wakefield Trinity.
Hull were hit by injuries in Friday’s York Knights fixture, with Aidan Sezer, Jed Cartwright and Harvey Barron sidelined. Yet there’s optimism on two fronts: prop Ligi Sao could return from a two-match ban, and loose forward James Bell is pushing for a first-team spot after a lengthy knee injury.
Bell has been rehabbing since tearing his knee during a December pre-season wrestling session. After two weeks of solid training, coach John Cartwright says Bell is in the mix for selection as Hull aim to improve their fortunes.
"James Bell is a possibility," Cartwright said after Friday’s game. "He’s trained with the squad over the past week. He’s an option. And Ligi will come back from suspension. We’re welcoming a few returning players. Our job is to get everyone as fit as possible and pick a side that travels to Wakefield ready to perform."
Hull’s start to the season has been rocky. They overturned Bradford Bulls in round one but then endured defeats to Wigan Warriors and York. After a pre-season marked by 13 surgeries and recoveries, Cartwright urged patience while underscoring the need for sharper execution.
"There’s no panic," he insisted. "We’re building momentum, but we’re not polished at the end of our plays. We haven’t spent much time together yet, and we’re operating with some new combinations (missing Will Pyrce). No excuses, though. We train constantly; we must finish better."
Cartwright’s measured assessment reflects a coach trying to steady a squad still finding cohesion. He remains confident Hull can flip the script, noting it’s only game three and that tougher tests lie ahead.
"We’re not happy with how we’re playing," he conceded. "We’re creating chances in the right areas, but we’re not converting those opportunities at the moment. It’s a learning phase, and we’ll keep working to tighten the gaps."
Hull FC will aim to turn form around in Wakefield, with the squad’s returns potentially key to lifting their performance when they face Trinity.
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