Yesterday, Hull FC completed their star-studded spine with the signing of Jake Clifford from the Newcastle Knights.
This allows Tex Hoy to play fullback in 2023 linking with his former teammate Clifford whilst former Castleford Tigers star Jake Trueman starts in the halves alongside Clifford.
It’s the perfect response to the loss of Jake Connor to Huddersfield Giants ahead of next season.
A major signing for the Black and Whites, it seems them use up their quota spots for 2023 and now their recruitment is seemingly complete for next season as Clifford joins Leeds Rhinos duo Liam Sutcliffe and Brad Dwyer at the club.
Clifford has signed a two-year deal with Hull FC however it comes with a special option within his contract according to reports down under.
According to the Daily Telegraph “the contract has an option that will allow him to return to the NRL at any point.”
This is because, according to the Australian news source, he maintains an ambition to return to the NRL.
The Daily Telegraph also reported that Clifford was set to be on $400,000 for next season which is around £230,000. This leaves Newcastle with plenty of cap space to use for next season.
It is unknown what his wage at Hull FC looks like.
So a major signing, Clifford’s future may not be signed on completely to Hull FC, but he will certainly give the Black and Whites impressive quality going into 2023 alongside Hoy and Trueman as Hull FC look to make a return to the play-offs after missing out the last two seasons.
It’s exciting times for the club and especially for new coach Tony Smith who said yesterday: “It’s been an incredible time so far and I have absolutely loved every moment.
“There have been a lot of meetings and a lot of developing of relationships between each other within our organisation over the last few weeks.
“I am really excited for the gathering of all of our players and staff both on and off the field. That’s the part I love about Rugby League – developing those relationships.”