Hull FC recruit Jake Arthur offers Aidan Sezer new lease of life, says John Cartwright
Hull FC head coach John Cartwright is confident that new signing Jake Arthur will help Aidan Sezer reach new heights in 2026.
Sezer was a standout performer in his debut season but lacked support as injuries hit the spine, leaving the Airlie Birds outside the top six at the end of the year.
Arthur, who made 34 appearances during his time in the NRL, has been brought in to balance Hull's attack and give the captain a new lease of life.
"They're both smart footballers and have bounced off each other really well," said Cartwright.
"I like the fact that Jake brings a genuine kicking game. That's going to help us enormously.
"With Jake, John Asiata and Will Pryce, if we can get 20-plus games out of those guys together, it would take a lot of pressure off Aidan. He'd be able to play more of his type of game. He's a good organiser but he also has a very good running game.
"If we can keep those boys on the field, I think we'll see a different side of Aidan's game."
Hull wrap up their pre-season programme with a friendly against Wigan Warriors on Sunday before travelling to Salford in the Challenge Cup next weekend.
Cartwright plans to use more first-teamers than this time last year when his side played York Acorn.
"I think we'll go closer to full strength," added the Australian, who is managing Asiata's fitness as the forward completes his recovery from hamstring surgery.
"It's a Friday night game so we've got a good eight-day turnaround.
"Salford will be willing. Whoever we played, it would be better than an opposed session. We've been doing that since November and want to do it in a competitive environment now."