FC target Hoy could get extended Newcastle chance

HULL FC target Tex Hoy could play for Newcastle Knights in the NRL this weekend after Kalyn Ponga was ruled out with concussion.

The star fullback copped a knock whilst playing for Queensland in Sunday’s second State of Origin match.

Due to concussion protocols, he will now miss the Knights’ game against the Gold Coast Titans this Friday. That could open up a spot for Hoy at fullback, who the Mail reported last week is on Hull FC’S radar.

We understand talks have taken place between the club and the player’s representatives, but that’s all they are thought to be at this stage. The Black and Whites will face some stiff competition from NRL clubs to secure their man, who are also thought to be taking interest in the 22-year-old.

Hoy has been playing for

Newcastle’s New South Wales Cup side in recent weeks and his potential NRL inclusion would obviously delay any hopes Hull had of getting him to the U.K for the rest of this season.

Brett Hodgson told the Mail after last Friday’s game that the club are looking at the market to bring a new player in as soon as possible. “We’re trying to bring someone in who can cover the Josh Reynolds decision, but that might take a little bit more time,” he explained.

That period of time could now be more than anticipated given that game three of Origin takes place in just over two weeks.

Hoy has played four NRL games for Newcastle this season, and was last seen playing at this level in round 10.

Newcastle’s squad will be named today. They currently sit in 12th place on the NRL ladder.