Dave Hodgson takes over at Hull KR as Tony Smith stands down due to Covid

HULL KR head coach Tony Smith is self-isolating for the next fortnight meaning he will miss the club's next three matches including tonight's game against Castleford Tigers and next week's derby with Hull FC.
Hull KR coach Tony Smith (Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com)Hull KR coach Tony Smith (Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com)
Hull KR coach Tony Smith (Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com)

Assistant coach Dave Hodgson has been put in charge following the development but this evening's fixture at the Totally Wicked Stadium is not in doubt.

Ex-Great Britain winger Hodgson, 39, has been on the Robins coaching staff since retiring at the end of 2014.

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He scored 177 tries in 363 games during his club career that spanned Halifax, Wigan, Salford, Huddersfield Giants and his hometown Robins.

During Smith's period of isolation, KR are also in action against Wakefield Trinity at Belle Vue on Sunday before facing Hull FC next Thursday.

He should be able to return for the game against his former club Warrington Wolves on Thursday November 5.

A brief club statement released this morning read: "Hull Kingston Rovers can confirm that following contact with someone who has subsequently tested positive for COVID-19, head coach Tony Smith is following Government guidance and self-isolating for the next 14 days.

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"The players were informed this morning and will continue to prepare for this evening’s game as normal.

"Assistant coach David Hodgson will be taking control of all first team coaching affairs until Tony returns to work."

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