Radford lays down Yeaman challenge

Hull FC coach Lee Radford has challenged centre Kirk Yeaman to stake a claim to a back row position at the club next season.

Yeaman has inked a one-year contract extension at the Airlie Birds, and Radford wants to see the experienced 32-year-old show some versatility.

“Kirk will also get the opportunity for a run in the back row which will be a challenge for him to adapt to a new position and see how he goes,” said Radford.

“What you want from your back-rowers is genuine lead runners out wide and Kirk is that, which is why it is an interesting option for us.

“Kirk comes in for some criticism at times but he has done so much for the black and white jersey and his career achievements to date are outstanding.”

Jack Logan, 20, has also signed a new deal with Hull, and should now be at the club until the end of the 2019 season.

Radford wants the youngster to benefit from the experience that playing alongside the likes of Yeaman can provide him with.

“What will be valuable for Kirk will be passing on his knowledge to Jack and hopefully Jack can take over from Kirk in the future and another Hull born centre can follow in his footsteps,” Radford added.

“He [Logan] needs to continue putting the work in on his defence and doing what we are asking of him.

“The challenge was laid down to him when we got a number of injuries to fill the gap.

“Now he needs to finish this year well and get a good pre-season under his belt. He has a brilliant skill-set and will get the smarts to go with it as he develops.”