Radford expecting Folau to get hostile reception

Hull FC head coach Lee Radford expects Catalans controversial centre Israel Folau to get special treatment from the Old Faithful on Sunday.

The Dragons visit to the KCOM Stadium will see Folau play his first Super League away match since signing for the French outfit last month.

It was a move that received criticism from much of the rugby league community after Folau was sacked by Australia Rugby last year for homosexual comments made online.

“I think he’ll probably get booed when he gets the football, booed when he scores and cheered when he misses a tackle,” said Radford.

“He’ll get the same moans and groans as anybody playing for Hull KR would get, I would imagine.

“If I could get good publicity all the time, that’d be great, but that’s never the case is it?

Catalans Dragons received a backlash after signing Israel Folau in January.

“But publicity is publicity, and it’s part and parcel of sport unfortunately.”

On the pitch and the Black and Whites coach has no doubts about the quality of Folau and believes he could bring the best out of a few FC players.

“He’s a talent. I can’t wait, I’m really looking forward to seeing Josh Griffin go against him.

“Because Griff’s in a bit of form at the minute, looks right at it, in terms of performances, so it’s going to be a ding-dong, and I know Josh is looking forward to that as well.

“It’s brilliant, come, turn up and have a watch and see how he goes.”