Sam Burgess has admitted he was impressed by Max Wood’s performance for Hull FC during their 36-12 victory over Huddersfield Giants while on loan.
The 21-year-old prop made an immediate impact at the MKM Stadium after arriving earlier in the week on a one-month loan deal.
Wood made his debut from the interchange bench and went on to record 35 tackles, 14 carries, 123 metres and no errors in a stint that lasted more than an hour in the middle.
Burgess recently defended his decision to send Wood out on loan after the move was met with backlash from Warrington supporters, insisting it was the best option for the youngster’s long-term development.
And the England legend was encouraged by Wood’s display for the Black and Whites.
“He did well, and I thought he was very good,” Burgess said of Wood.
“I was very happy for him, and I think that’s the longest time he’s spent on the field at first-team level.
“He came in on Monday to see our medical team and pick up some supplies or whatever, and we had a good chat about his game — things that were great and things we’re pushing him to work on.
“I think getting him into a new environment has been great, and he’s got a couple of mates there that he has played with before. I was very impressed, and I just can’t give him that amount of time at the moment. He played 66 minutes, which is so good for his development.
“His first carry, they scored on the back of it. We know Max can do all of that; we’re just trying to tidy up other areas of his game.”