Leeds Rhinos boss Brad Arthur has confirmed that Hull FC have “reached out” to the club, asking if they can extend the loan periods for two players.
Both Jeremiah Mata’utia and Ethan O’Neill have been appearing for the Black and Whites in the past few weeks, with Mata’utia making four appearances for the club and O’Neill two.
The duo have been big additions to Andy Last’s side, with the interim boss consistently praising their work ethic and commitment to the club, despite them only being on loan.
As a result of their efforts, and the fact that FC keep picking up injuries and suspensions to their middle unit, the Airlie Birds have asked Leeds if they can keep the overseas pair for a bit longer.
Arthur, who has been very fortunate this season with almost all of his squad being injury-free, will decide on the two players later this week, however he is keen on them both to continue their stay at the MKM Stadium.
“Hull have reached out to us, and they’re obviously very happy with those guys, which is great,” he said to the press this week. “We want them to be a good reflection of our club.
“We’re playing Thursday [today], they play Friday, so we’ll get through our game, reassess and see where we’re at.
“If we feel like we’re reasonably covered with health, and it’s good for them to keep getting some game time, because that’s what it’s about, we’ll look at it again.”
FC take on Warrington Wolves this week, as they look to overcome a three-game losing run. Both Leeds players have been named in Last’s squad and both are expected to feature.
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