Hull FC have explained some factors surrounding Sam Eseh’s move to Bradford Bulls.
Sam Eseh played for Hull FC on loan last year.(Image: SW PIX)
Andy Last has stated that salary and salary cap factors could be behind Hull FC’s reasons not to sign former loan player Sam Eseh.
The prop forward, still only 23, has surprisingly signed for Bradford Bulls on a three-year deal from the 2027 season, with Wigan Warriors boss Matt Peet admitting this week that the Cherry and Whites were unable to match the offer presented by Bradford due to salary cap restraints.
And Last has suggested that the same reasoning could be behind Hull’s decision not to move for the player, who impressed in his stint at the club last season.
Eseh first played a short, four-game loan spell at Hull in 2024 but returned for the entire 2025 season, totalling 21 appearances in his two stints at the club.
That second stint led many to believe Hull may have gone back for their former loan player upon the expiry of his Wigan contract, and while that may have been the case, it’s Bradford who have been able to offer the prop forward the best deal for 2027 and beyond.
“Things for next year and signings are more conversations for Richie (Myler, CEO) and the club, but with regard to Sam Eseh, I’m sure we enquired about him,” Last explained. “I know we’re in for any good players that are on the market but there will be reasons why we haven’t gone down that route with Sam.
“It could be salary; it could be our own cap issues. Sam is a good player and he did a good job for us in that period on loan. He’s gone back to Wigan; he’s in their 17 on a weekly basis, and he’s managed to get a deal at Bradford. Good luck to him.”
Last was also asked about Aidan Sezer amid external reports that the Hull skipper has been offered to Super League clubs next season.
“It’s a conversation for Richie and Steve for next year,” Last reaffirmed. “I’m just controlling this next period until the end of the season.”
The Hull FC interim coach also spoke of new loan signing Max Wood, who has arrived at the Black and Whites for the next month and is already making a good first impression.
“He’s a very, very good player,” Last said. “He came through the Wigan system and then Warrington signed him. He’s played 35 odd Super League games. He’s got good experience, he’s got energy, he’s got good leg speed, and he can play good minutes in the middle of the field, which is something I think we need at this moment in time, just to complement our big middles in Herman (Ese’ese), Hugo (Salabio), and Jeremiah (Mata’utia).
“Max certainly fits the bill. He’s trained really well this week. The guys have been impressed with him. He’s got some late footwork and he’s got a passing game. He’s a good communicator as well and a very confident lad. He’s settled in great and we’re looking forward to seeing him go out there on the weekend.”