I'm surprised about Leeds and Catalans as well. Otherwise the odds seem to be about right.

Something new for pre-match this season

rlhttps://www.hulldailymail.co.uk/sport/rugby-league/hull-fc-confirm-new-resident-9069626rl

Next CEO once Clarkey moves on?

25/1 Get your money on

From "good afternoon West Stand" to promotion to the CEO did raise a few eyebrows

Reading the latest article it hasn't and doesn't fill me with much confidence in regards to the 9 spot. Reading the comments from Smith in the article for me its quite concerning that it does actually seem as though it will yet again be a case of either flogging Houghton for 80 mins (or as long as possible) or Cator being the interchange 9. Really do fail to see any genuine positive with that when we have Morgan Smith & Balmforth, who for me would a better option for that role and give us some threat and creativity we lack. We have been poor for far too long and during that time we have persisted continually with Houghton for 80mins or moved someone else as a stand in 9 until last season. Admittedly Dwyer wasn't great for us overall, though think that was more down to him playing like a headless chicken most of the time, however it did show what a difference it made to us having someone at 9/dummy half with a bit of flair and speed.

I really hope I have misread the situation with the article but fear I haven't and if that is Smiths grand plan then I don't actually hold out a lot of hope of seeing much in the way of improvement.

Certainly wouldn't have been my first choice having Cator as backup. I'm wondering if there's more to Balmforth not getting game time apart from this shoulder injury. Only thinking aloud but maybe his fitness isn't still up to scratch? Smith sees these guys every day so I have faith in his judgement.

Think it was obvious when Houghton was made captain he'd be starting most games and used for as many minutes as possible this season. Whilst he still does have a lot to offer at 9, I don't think playing him at 13 adds any value to us as a team, better for him just to have a rest on the bench rather than chopping and changing mid game

Lewis Martin, Litten and Scott options for the wing according to Smith in HDM.

While Scott has always tried his best he's not a natural winger. Hoping Martin gets his chance.

Well i'm ever the optimist and hopeful for a much improved season.

A younger squad, bigger pack and some players with points to prove bodes well for what's to come.
As Smith alluded to in his recent league express interview, having a much younger squad as seen a much more intense pre season.

Signings wise, Walker and Nu Brown are quality additions. Although only Doncaster, Tindall and Smith both looked very good and think they'll both prove to be astute signings.
Ashworth certainly has the talent and it's great to hear that he's moved over to Hull and he certainly seems to have the bit between his teeth to get his career back on track.

Excited by the NRL signings. Ese Ese is a quality player and Pele and Okunbor again seem determined to make their mark.

Really looking forward to seeing a big pack once again after the last few seasons.

We only really had Satae and Griffin last season who brought us some impact.
Sao didn't have a pre season so never really got going. Taylor was playing busted and was never really fully fit. Savelio when he could be bothered was a handful but just wasn't consistent and we all know his attitude issues.

So, although i think we'll just miss out on the six, i'm confident we'll be much improved. COYH

Do we know what round we’re expecting Trueman back? The club weren’t ruling him out for start of season so surely he’s got to be in the last 4-6 weeks of rehab

Looking to be back for sometime in March.

especially as it looks like Balmforth will be playing in an arranged reserve fixure several days later.
Like most sports you have to accept that the manager/coach has players in his squad that he either doesnt like or rate as a player.
I dont think its fitness with Balmforth i think the coach simply doesnt rate him

me too but Smith does have a square pegs in round holes mentality so no surprise if Scott plays on the wing

Well he gave him a contract extension so he must rate his potential at least.