Hull Confirm Foster Signing

Hull FC have completed the signing of St. Helens winger Jamie Foster on loan for at least the next month.

The 22-year-old goal machine, who scored over 400 points last season including 25 tries in 32 matches will join the Black and Whites with immediate effect.

The England Knights winger, who has represented his country alongside the likes of Joe Westerman and Danny Houghton, was one of Super League’s stand out performers last year, most notably from the kicking tee.

His move comes on the back of news that fellow youngster Ben Crooks has joined Hull’s extensive injury list with a minor knee operation expected to be carried out next week.

Speaking to www.hullfc.com, Hull FC head coach Peter Gentle said, “With Ben facing surgery which we couldn't delay any longer, we felt it was important to try and bring somebody in with the deadline approaching and to land a player of Jamie’s calibre is a real coup.

“He had a fantastic season last year for Saints scoring plenty of tries as well as being an accomplished goal kicker so he certainly fits the bill.

“He is a talented youngster with pace and an eye for a try and he comes here with a point to prove so we look forward to seeing him in the Black and White of Hull.”

Foster’s impeccable goal kicking ability was probably a major incentive for Hull having lost their own marksmen, Danny Tickle, for the remainder of the season through injury.

Having trailed 18-8 at one stage in the recent game against Catalans Dragons, despite only being three tries to two down, it highlighted the importance of having a sharp shooter to turn four points into six points consistently.

“Jamie’s kicking was also a major plus for us,” commented Gentle. “It gives us another option to Westy if we need it and as the weekend showed just how much of a difference missing your kicks can make, albeit they were very tough ones for Joe.”

“In terms of other options to cover Ben, we could have had a look at Tom Lineham.

“Tom certainly has a bright future with us, but at this stage of his development it would be unfair on the kid to throw him in having missed a vital part of the season, so having a player with first-grade experience is probably right for us at this stage.”

Foster will join up with his new team mates for training on Friday morning and will be available for selection for Monday’s televised Hull derby against rivals Hull Kingston Rovers.

Having already sampled St. Helens v Wigan, it could well be a true baptism of fire if selected for the only true derby in rugby league.

Source: hullfc.com
Photo Credit: SWpix.com