Hull FC's Jamie Shaul says: "I'm not Jake Connor but I can make a difference"

Jamie Shaul's not even going to try and replicate Super League star Jake Connor - but can still help fire Hull.

He is set for an extended run in his old full-back position with Connor out for 12 weeks with a knee injury. Shaul, who starts at Warrington on Friday, had been the club’s regular No1 ever since debuting in 2013. But coach Brett Hodgson switched England maverick Connor there last season and he’s ruled supreme.

Connor’s 24 try assists is more than any other player in Super League. Shaul said: “Jake’s Jake and I’m me. We all know what he can do. He’s more of a ‘good ball’ player; he lights up when we get near their try-line. I’m probably a different player. I’ll do the stuff he doesn’t like doing and I’ll try and get us on the front foot, do my bit for the team.

“I won’t be anywhere near his try assists and I’m not even going to try. But I can do my bit. I know what I’m good at and I’ll do that. I’ll try and get on the end of stuff in ‘good ball’ as well but I know I’m not as clinical as him.

“Jake’s probably up there as one of the best around finishing tries and picking the right pass. That’s what he brings to us but I bring something a little different. I’m looking forward to it. The past couple of years have been tough as I’ve not had that place in the team. When you’re not playing every week when you are used to it, it’s hard.”

Shaul had been filling in on the wing at times this season but started at full-back again for their last outing at Catalans. The two-time Challenge Cup winner said: “It’s a funny one as I’ve not really played there for two years now since I injured my ACL in 2020. I’ve been struggling to try and find my place in the team, if I’m honest.

“It has been tough. I sat down with him