Hull FC are hopeful of welcoming back Liam Watts this weekend as they take on Huddersfield Giants at the MKM Stadium.
Watts has made just one appearance since re-signing for the club earlier this year, with his second debut coming in the win over Wakefield Trinity in March. Unfortunately, the veteran prop injured his calf in that game and hasn’t played since after suffering a setback at the start of summer.
However, the prop has returned to full training over the last week and, while, he hasn’t been given the green light to play just yet, there’s a good chance he could be involved against the Giants on Saturday afternoon.
Hull FC injury latest
“There’s a chance he’s available for selection this week,” assistant coach Last said. “We haven’t finalised the squad but the way he trained today, he’ll certainly be pushing the conversation in regards to the 17. He’s chomping at the bit.
“He did a real good job at Wakefield. He picked up an injury and injured the same knee. He’s back from that now and the way that he trained today, he’s really looking sharp and strong.”
If involved, he won’t be the only man returning, with Amir Bourouh coming back in after his head knock. Ed Chamberlain will be given another fortnight to recover from the concussion he picked up against Wakefield Trinity, though.
“He’s been given the all clear to be available for selection for the next game, which I think is Salford,” Last added. “He’ll have the week off next week from playing and then he’ll be available for selection for Salford.
“We have to be careful. We’ve got a good medical team and Andy [Shea], our physio, is on top of all that kind of stuff. We don’t want to take any risks when it comes to the head. As soon as there’s any concussion, there’s a process for us to follow and we’re very diligent in doing that.”
Jordan Lane is still recovering from the broken arm he picked up against Hull KR earlier in the season, but the assistant coach expects him to return before the end of the season.
“Jordan had a consultant appointment today and he’s had some good news that the actual arm injury is starting to heal sufficiently,” he added. “There’s a chance he’ll be able to play before the end of the season.”
On Will Pryce and John Asiata, Last revealed the pair are still on track to return against Salford Red Devils on August 10.
“Still on track to come back after the break,” he added. “They’ve progressed their return to play stuff, they’re hitting high percentages on the high speed running and they’re flying around the training field.
“Will is as loud as anybody, as fast as anybody and more skilful than anybody. He’s certainly brought a lot to the group since coming in and John, they’re very professional, they’re pushing each other and it would be great to finally be in a position to be able to pick from a full strength team, barring Ligi Sao.”
