Prop Joe Bullock has been recalled by Warrington Wolves despite Hull FC thinking he would stay for a bit longer.
The 31-year-old, who has made over 200 career appearances, was on a two-week loan from the Wolves.
He was joined by teammate Matty Russell in swapping Warrington for Hull FC.
Hull FC head coach Tony Smith, speaking on BBC Radio Humberside, had said: “I think it’s on a week to week basis.
“The following week we play in the Cup so we won’t be playing Joe, but if he’s still available to us after the Challenge Cup, we’ll assess that and work out whether he continues with us.
“Whether Warrington Wolves need him back.”
Bullock helped Hull FC to their first win of the season, coming off the bench against London Broncos, and was again named on the bench for their loss to Catalans Dragons.
They’ve now had six bans this season, and more than their fair share of injury problems.
However, the club announced today that he will be returning to the Wolves, in a huge blow for the black-and-whites.
Hull FC can confirm that loanee Joe Bullock has been recalled by parent club @WarringtonRLFC. The club would like to thank Joe for his efforts over the past two weeks, and wish him the best of luck for the rest of the season.
Fellow loanee Matty Russell will have his pectoral… pic.twitter.com/aGvN4bM0oh
— Hull FC (@hullfcofficial) March 13, 2024
This follows prop Gil Dudson leaving the Wolves for Salford on a loan for the rest of the season, which left a gap in the squad which Bullock will fill.
Smith had noted the importance of having him in the side:
“He’s a good pro. He’s played tough, he’s a no-nonsense player.
“He gets out there and does his job and he’s been doing it well. He’s added a bit of size and impact for us off the bench.Â
“I’m very, very grateful for those bodies.”
“We’ve got some young guys who are getting some game time, which is great. We’ve just got to be careful of how many at one time.
“That’s why it’s been important for Joe to come in and give us some of that experience, particularly in the forwards.”
Our verdict
They’ve been consistently without a good chunk of their squad this season, and Ashworth’s ban and Matty Russell’s injury were just the latest problems in a nightmare season for the black-and-whites.
Bullock is incredibly experienced, and as Smith said, he did his job well: Hull FC just aren’t getting a break at the minute.
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