Tony Smith reveals impact of overseas signings during early pre-season

Hull FC had a disappointing 2023 campaign in their first season under Tony Smith but the Black and Whites have made plenty of signings for 2024 with Smith excited about his new ‘youthful’ squad.

An early season run of form that saw FC lose seven games in a row all but ended their play-off hopes before the season had even hit the midway mark and despite some form late on it ended up as another season without play-offs.

That marked a third straight season without cracking Super League’s top six but there’s plenty of hope at the MKM for the upcoming season, and Tony Smith has made sure to let fans know that their support through these ‘tough times’ doesn’t go unnoticed and is massively appreciated.

He told the club website: “The fans have been remarkable, really. The loyalty that they have shown during my time here has really impressed me.

“They’re really knowledgeable on the game and they understand what a good effort looks like. They’re some of the best in the country for appreciating effort and application from the players.

“Certainly as a coach, I like to have flair and style about our approach, but the first two ingredients need to be hard work and commitment to the badge and to each other.

“So it’s appreciated that our fans understand that. And it’s appreciated that so many fans stick with us during the tough spells. I know they’ve been through some tough years. Hopefully at some stage soon, we will be able to reward them for their incredibly loyal support.”

To turn it around FC have brought in plenty of signings from down under with a particular focus on their pack and it’s size. Having lost Chris Satae to Catalans Dragons and Scott Taylor to retirement the club have brought in size in the shape of Franklin Pele, Jayden Okunbor and Jack Ashworth whilst Herman Ese’ese is yet to arrive in England.

Smith explained the importance of those new recruits: “I’m pleased with the physique of some of our new recruits in the middle. They look big and in good shape.

“We also still have another one of our big recruits, Herman Ese’ese, yet to arrive. He’ll be with us pretty soon.

“Not only size, but we’ve also added some more youthfulness to our side. Hopefully it all bodes well for the season ahead.”

The new signings have also brought with them intensity during the cold and dark pre-season days, Smith explaining: “There’s a real enthusiasm there and there seems to be a freshness around the place.

“We have some new personnel both on and off the field that has freshened us up in all areas. That was needed and it was due.

“And I think it’s energised the guys who’ve been at the club for a little longer. It’s certainly created a new buzz around the place, which has made the first few weeks of pre-season so far very enjoyable.

“It’s tough work for the players but they have approached everything put in front of them with the right attitude.”