WILL HUTCHINSON is confident he’s on the right path to become Hull FC’s first-choice hooker.

The 19-year-old homegrown product made his Hull debut against Wigan Warriors in February 2025 and matched last season’s tally of four appearances when he faced the same club on Saturday.

Hutchinson has had a bench role in place of Cade Cust, who is currently sidelined by a shoulder injury which may heal in time for this Saturday’s Hull derby at Magic Weekend.

“I feel like it’s what I need, a good run in the squad to get used to the speed of it,” said the Skirlaugh junior.

“I know I can hold my own and have a positive impact on the squad.

“I want to be the nine for this club, and every opportunity I get is a good stepping stone to getting where I want to be.

“I don’t get frustrated because I know there’s Amir (Bourouh) and Custy (ahead of me).

“The main thing you need to do is work hard and earn your opportunity because it’s not just going to be given to you.

“Right now I’m trying to keep my place and give Lasty some headaches, for example when Custy is back. My goal is the stay in the team.”

Hull’s worst fears over another of their youngsters were confirmed last week with confirmation that Will Kirby suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury in their defeat to Wakefield Trinity.

The 20-year-old was making only his seventh appearance for the club, and third start, having worked his way into contention via two loan spells with Hunslet.

Head coach Andy Last said: “He’s going to be out for a long period of time. It’s potentially nine months of rehab.

“I’m devastated for Will. It was one which brought a bit of a lump to my throat, if I’m being honest.

“It’s the sad side of this savage sport. Will trains really well and he works hard, he gained my confidence and the trust of his teammates, but then the game found a way to knock him down.”