HODGSON HAS AN ED START IN HULL TITLE BID
BRETT HODGSON will tap into insights from England RU coach Eddie Jones when he attempts to end Hull FC’s title drought.
The former Huddersfield and Warrington full-back, who was Steve Prescott Man of Steel in 2009, has been charged with turning the Black and Whites into trophy winners following his recent appointment.
Hull FC have not won the top flight since 1983 but Hodgson arrives as one of the most highly-rated young coaches in the sport after working as No.2 to ex-Wigan boss Michael Maguire at Wests Tigers.
Since retiring from playing in 2013 he has used the off-seasons to educate himself about coaching methods in other sports, including the 15-man code.
Hodgson explained: “Getting out and learning from different organisations is really helpful, whether that be football, rugby union, or whatever else.
“I’ve been fortunate enough to spend time at Manchester United, Manchester City, and Everton in the Premier League, and union side Clermont Auvergne in France. I also spent time with Eddie Jones in the England rugby union camp, and saw how he interacted with his players.
“You tend to think coaches are all so serious when they get on the field.
“But Eddie used to go up to all different players and have a little laugh and joke at times. Then he knew when to be serious and when to get the best out of them.”
Hodgson has been linked with a big-money move for his former Wests team-mate Benji Marshall, but Hull FC officials have privately played down their chances of landing him.
But a new stand-off is certainly a priority for Hodgson, while back rower Josh Jones is set to join Huddersfield.