Radford hails “unique” situation with Lee Smith

Hull FC coach Lee Radford has confirmed that the club will hand another opportunity to Lee Smith in this Sunday’s derby against Hull KR – and he admits to get someone of his quality presented to him so late in pre-season is a remarkable piece of business.

The former Wakefield man reportedly had a deal agreed at another club according to Radford, but it collapsed.

That enabled Hull to take him on trial, and Radford admits it’s great to have the chance to secure someone like Smith.

“The situation is unique, how he agreed to go somewhere and it fell through,” Radford said. “To have a player of his quality come across your desk is pleasing.

“His versatility adds to his value – the fact he’s very comfortable at full-back, on the wing and, at a push at centre, he’s a natural goal-kicker as well, he’s got some strings to his bow.”

Hull will make a call after this Sunday’s derby, but Radford insisted that they would be able to squeeze him under the salary cap if required.

“It would be a stretch (to accommodate him under the salary cap) but there’s room to manoeuvre I think. The next step for Lee is obviously putting in a performance on Sunday.”