“We’ve put a statement out this year,” says Hull FC star Jordan Lane

Jordan Lane, like Hull FC, has hit the ground running in 2021, and he puts that down to a stellar pre-season.

“I’ve started the season well and put in some hard work this pre-season and reaped the rewards for it,” Lane said.

“I’ve been working hard on my fitness and I’m a lot fitter this year than the past two years.”

The forward also spoke about how the Hull side feels a lot different in 2021.

“I’m really enjoying it this year, we’re a different team; the boys are playing out of their skin and playing for each other and it’s showing.

“I think defending is one of my biggest assets, but every player’s main asset is defence because it’s what’s been drilled into us in pre-season.

“We’ve tightened that up and this game at Wigan is our chance to show we’re a top team and that we want to win trophies.

“Previous years, teams have looked at us as we’re weak minded in defence, but we’ve put a statement out this year.”

Lane himself has excelled at loose-forward and even earned an England Knights call-up during the week – something which took him by surprise.

“I enjoy playing 13, but it’s more my second position because I’m a back-rower.

“Being on the pitch is good enough for me though so I’ll play wherever the team needs me.

“I was shocked, I didn’t really expect it (the England Knights call-up).

“I was having a meal with my missus and Paul Anderson rang me and said I’d made the squad.

“It’s very exciting to train with the first-team; it’s going to be a big challenge and being in that environment with the best players, I’m going to enjoy it.”