Yahoo News Hull FC young guns set for Super League opportunity as loan market also considered
Hull FC head coach Tony Smith has confirmed that some young talent will get an opportunity at Warrington Wolves this week. The Black and Whites could be without as many as 14 players for Friday's trip to Cheshire as both injuries and suspensions have depleted the side.
Still to finalise his 21-man-squad, Smith is awaiting the outcome of Ligi Sao's appeal, with the likes of Liam Sutcliffe, who missed the derby through injury, hopeful to play. However, should the worst happen, there will be 14 players unavailable for the round two clash.
Hull Live understands the current situation has even seen Hull test the waters about some emergency loan deals for senior players, but nothing is yet conclusive. However, it still remains a possibility over the next 24 hours or so, although it is a complicated process with Super League clubs being reluctant to release players due to fear of bans, injuries, or both.
In the meantime, Smith name-checked four young Hull FC players who are set to feature against Sam Burgess' side, with Hull forced into potentially half a dozen changes. Asked if Friday was an opportunity for some young stars, Smith said: "Absolutely. There are at least five opportunities for new faces, maybe six.
"There's Will Gardiner, who will come in. There's Nick Staveley, Charlie Severs, Denive Balmforth, and some more. I haven't gone through all of them. We've got a number of young guys who will get an opportunity this week.
"We haven't finalised yet that, but we have to put our 21-man squad on Wednesday lunchtime. It may take up until Thursday to sort it out, but until we get an answer on Ligi, it's hard to be definite."
Hull will appeal Ligi Sao's suspension this Tuesday evening, with Franklin Pele also set to learn the severity of his ban at a tribunal. The prop was handed a Grade E Head Contact charge on Monday, with the grading carrying a 4-6 game ban.
As for more potential youngsters, Hull also have Damel Diakhate, Zach Jebson, and Matty Laidlaw to call on, not mention the academy promotions.
