Carlos Tuimavave must be considered a doubt as Hull FC ready themselves for Saturday’s test against Wigan Warriors. The centre limped out of FC’s derby loss to Hull KR with a hamstring issue and it remains to be seen if he will be involved this weekend.
We’ll know more when Simon Grix names his 21-man squad on Thursday afternoon, but the interim head coach will be mulling over his right centre options as he waits on news from the club’s medical staff. Grix hinted at the possibility of adding reinforcements this week, but as it stands he is without an obvious centre solution.
As such, if Tuimavave is ruled out, he could be forced to get creative in his selection this week as he strives to fill a hole in the outside backs. Here, we look at the Black and Whites’ centre options.
Davy Litten
The versatile youngster has struggled for game time in a black and white shirt this season, but he impressed when he was called upon on Saturday against the Robins. Stepping off the bench in the derby, Litten filled in for Liam Sutcliffe on the left while the centre underwent a HIA, before switching flanks when Tuimavave came off.
It’s not his natural position, nor is it his preferred spot in the side, but Litten took it in his stride, ran well and staked his claim to feature against the Warriors. With the experienced head of Tom Briscoe on the outside of him, Litten wouldn’t be short of advice or guidance and with his running ability clear to see, he could make an impact in the position.
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Tom Briscoe
Briscoe has been used on the wing since returning to East Yorkshire earlier this season, but he does have experience of playing centre, having done so with regularity towards the end of his stint with Leeds Rhinos. It’s not a position he played at Leigh Leopards but Briscoe’s experience in the role and nous might just make him the most sensible option to step inside.
Such a decision would leave a hole on the wing, of course, but the Black and Whites would have no problem filling that spot, with Litten slightly more comfortable there, while Liam Tindall and Harvey Barron are also available for selection. Indeed, wing options aren’t an issue for Grix and that might lead the interim boss to ask a favour of the 34-year-old.
Harvey Barron
Barron has played centre before, but it is by no means his strongest position. However, he has the speed and strength to make an impact on the ball and as he continues his development he would surely be happy to take on the position. Callum Shaw and Ryan Westerman played centre for the reserves against their Hull KR counterparts on Saturday, but neither have first-team experience at this point in his career.
