Hull FC have been linked with a move for NRL half-back Daly Cherry-Evans.
Hull FC have been linked with a move for Daly Cherry-Evans.(Image: SW PIX)
Andy Last refused to comment on speculation linking Hull FC with a move for NRL half-back Daly Cherry-Evans, but also didn’t rule out the club potentially signing the player.
In fact, the interim coach, who will remain at the club as an assistant to incoming head coach Steve McNamara next season, did make a telling point regarding that type of experienced player – and what DCE could bring to the Black and Whites if he were available to sign for 2027, as strongly reported throughout rugby league media this Wednesday.
Reports began in Australia overnight that the current Sydney Roosters star, who turns 38 in February and has over 370 games of NRL experience to his name, is in ‘advanced discussions’ to sign for Hull, who have been deemed the ‘frontrunner’ to secure what would be a sensational move to Super League.
Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Last was asked about those reports and likened Cherry-Evans’ potential impact to that of Stephen Kearney, who played a big part in Hull’s Challenge Cup success back in 2005.
“I don’t think any club would turn their nose up at experienced players who can impact not only on the field but also the culture of the club,” Last said. “The player that always springs to mind for me is Stephen Kearney.
“He came and played for us back in 2005, and I still speak about Steve’s legacy now. He had one season with us but the impact he had on the culture, in terms of how you apply yourself to the game and to training and how he turned up and got himself mentally ready to play, was sensational.
“I know he had a big influence on Richard Horne and Paul Cooke, and that’s what senior players can do. They build a lasting legacy on the younger lads by being around them and showing them how to prepare for games and that type of stuff.
“Experience is not only about what they do on the pitch but also the impact they have on your culture and Steve had a big impact on numerous players who were at the club at that time and had a lasting legacy. That’s what comes with signing experienced players.”
Pushed if Cherry-Evans could be that player for Hull, Last added: “I won’t be ruling it out, but I’m not going to speculate on it either.”