Chester backs Boudebza to surprise Super League

Hull KR‘s new French hooker John Boudebza could be a surprise hit in Super League next year, according to Robins coach Chris Chester.

Former Hull FC coach John Agar rates the player highly, and, in his job as French national coach, gave the 24-year-old his international debut in this year’s European Championship.

Nevertheless, Rovers remain in the hunt for a more experienced hooker to complement Boudbeza and the more established Keal Carlile.

“John is quick out of dummy-half, has a good skill level and plenty of energy,” Chester told the Hull Daily Mail.

“He has that toughness about him that you need as a hooker.

“He can also get his forwards around the park and with us losing Josh Hodgson we need someone like that.

“We are looking for another hooker, a more experienced nine, but that’s just because I want to make sure I have competition for every position in the squad.

“He is a gamble, but it’s a calculated one and I am hoping for big things.”