Hull working on new expansive style of play

Hull second-rower Willie Manu has revealed that they are working on a new style of play for next season, under new Head Coach Peter Gentle.

The Airlie Birds are currently in Tenerife for a warm-weather training camp and Manu, who was the club’s Player of the Year in 2011, is looking to take his game to a new level in 2012.

He told the club’s official website: “There’s always room for improvement in this sport. You never stop learning in this game and I’ve already picked up a lot of things from Peter during pre-season training.

“I was happy with some of my performances last year, but I am looking to kick-on now and that applies to the rest of the team.

“We have been working on a new style of play for next season and we’ll be throwing the ball around, so there is no reason why we all can’t improve and have an even greater impact on the game.”

Manu, 31, is entering his sixth season at the KC Stadium after joining from Castleford for the 2007 season, and has established himself as a fans favourite.

He formed an effective combination with Tom Briscoe and Kirk Yeaman last season, which helped him earn representative honours in the inaugural Exiles team for their clash with England.