Video: Hull FC's Jamie Shaul up for battle to achieve England ambition

Firstly, St Helens’ gifted Jonny Lomax seized his opportunity during the Four Nations last autumn and, as the incumbent, certainly came away in credit following his international bow.

But, of course, he was only given that shot by England coach Wayne Bennett because superstar Sam Tomkins was injured, the Wigan Warriors player due back in April or May.

Yet there is another not too insignificant full-back eagerly-awaiting his chance, too – Zak Hardaker.

The 2015 Man of Steel played all three Tests in the series win over New Zealand only to miss the cut completely last year following a difficult time at Leeds Rhinos and then, in the eyes of Bennett, failing to get enough game-time during his mid-season loan to Penrith Panthers.

However, Hardaker undoubtedly looks like his old self if what the devastating attacking demonstrated for Castleford Tigers – where he is on a season long-loan – at Warrington Wolves last Friday is anything to go by.

Furthermore, although more of a half-back, Warrington’s utility Stefan Ratchford is another option available to Bennett in his 30-man elite performance squad ahead of the mid-season Test versus Samoa and the World Cup at the end of the campaign.

So, where does all of this leave the uncapped Shaul, the exciting Airlie Bird who congregated for that group’s first training session on Monday?

He scored the winning try in last season’s Challenge Cup final, earned ‘Dream Team’ recognition and is now, for the first time, included in England’s thinking.

“Competition is hot and they’re all good players at what they do and great for their club,” said Shaul.

“Zak’s started the season really, really well. I’ve not seen much of Jonny but he was on fire last year as well while Sam is yet to come back but we know what he can do.

“It’s tough but I’ll try do my bit for Hull every week and see how it comes at the end of the year.”

He gets his latest chance when Hull head to Huddersfield tomorrow night and he admits wanting to prove a point whenever he faces any of those rivals.

“It’s not something I really think about before the game but you know at the back of your mind there is a (England) spot up for grabs,” added the Hull-born 24-year-old.

“No matter who it is, I always try and outplay my opposite number. It might have that bit more effect on you but I don’t think too much about it.

“I really, really enjoyed our first session on Monday. All the lads made me feel really welcome and it’s the first time I’ve been involved in any England set-up.

“It went really well. We had people like Paul Sculthorpe and Jamie Peacock here, legends in their own right, Paul Anderson and Paul Wellens, too, who was a great full-back in his career.

“I’m going to make sure I take as much as I can from him as I can.

“I always looked up to him when growing up so will be trying to pick up plenty from him and asking as many questions as I can.

“It’s every man’s dream to play for his country; I’m involved in it now so I’m taking it into my stride and trying to enjoy the moment but striving towards it.”

Although Hull opened with a win at Wakefield, they were disappointing when losing narrowly at home to Catalans last Thursday.

Shaul admitted: “I don’t think we were at our best.

“We’re looking to rectify a few wrongs and put them right against a strong Huddersfield side.

“Danny Brough’s playing really well at the minute so we’ll have to keep our eye on him.

“It’s always a tough place to go as it’s not got the best of atmospheres so it can be hard to get up for it.

“But after that bad form last Thursday everyone is chomping at the bit to put it right and get everyone back on side.”

Admittedly, Hull expect plenty from their side in 2017 after they led Super League for most of last year only to fall away badly at the end after their famous first win at Wembley.

“I think the fans at Hull are always very optimistic anyway,” said Shaul, who started out as a bricklayer before earning a professional deal.

“With the success of last year, that builds on itself for the following season.

“Hopefully, we can get more silverware but we just want to compete on all fronts.”

Hull welcome back stand-off Albert Kelly tomorrow, after suspension, while youngster Masi Matongo has also been named in the 19-man squad for the first time this season, replacing Liam Watts. Gareth Ellis is injured.

The Giants are missing Jermaine McGillvary (quad) and Ukuma Ta’ai (suspension).