Swain returns to support Hull FC skipper Ellis

The former Kiwi hooker led the Airlie Birds when they stunned Leeds Rhinos in Cardiff 10 years ago.

Swain, who played almost 100 games for Hull after joining from Brisbane Broncos in 2004, flew in from New Zealand especially to join the likes of Johnny Whiteley, Lee Crooks, Steve ‘Knocker’ Norton, Karl Harrison and Andy Lynch at two past-captains dinner as part of Ellis’ event.

Asked what it’s like to be back in Yorkshire, the 39-year-old - who also led Hull in the 2006 Grand Final - said: “Not a lot has changed here, to be honest!

“It’s great to be back. I’ve a lot of good memories from here and have seen a lot of people I used to know so it’s great.

“The Hull people came out in their numbers for Gaz, too, at his dinners and he is a quality player.

“I’ve only watched one of their games since I’ve been over here - the Catalans match last Friday night which was a little scrappy but they got a good win.

“They’ve got a good rosta this year so it just comes down to preparation now, I think.”