Gentle on compassionate leave

Hull FC head coach Peter Gentle has returned to Australia on compassionate leave.

The former Wests Tigers assistant, who has led Hull to eight wins and a draw in his 12 Super League games in charge, has flown Down Under following a close family bereavement.

The Airlie Birds aren’t in action this weekend, having been eliminated from the Challenge Cup by Huddersfield in the fourth round.

A club statement said: “The club would like to pass on their sincere condolences to Peter and his family and wish them a safe return to East Yorkshire.”

Gentle is expected to return for Hull’s Super League clash against London next weekend.