'Opportunity to help make a difference': Andy Last's first words after securing Hull FC return

The former Castleford Tigers boss has signed a three-year contract after spending this season assisting Steve McNamara at Catalans Dragons.

"Firstly, I’d like to thank Catalans for allowing me the chance to pursue this opportunity with Hull FC," said Last, who will join Simon Grix on the coaching staff.

"I have loved my time in the south of France this season but it's great to be coming back to Hull. One of the big things for me is seeing that there is an opportunity to come back and help make a difference."

Last played for Hull before joining the coaching staff in 2005 and working his way up to the role of assistant.

The Hull native was Lee Radford's number two for the club's back-to-back Challenge Cup triumphs and had a spell as interim head coach in 2020.

The Black and Whites reached the play-offs under Last but he was overlooked for the permanent job, with Brett Hodgson preferred as Radford's successor.

Last left to join Wakefield Trinity as an assistant before taking a similar position with Castleford.

The 43-year-old was handed his first head coach role in 2023 following Radford's departure but struggled to improve the Tigers' fortunes and did not see out the season.

Last is ready to prove his coaching qualities after securing a return to his hometown club.

"Another big draw for me is the quality of the youth programme at the club," he added.

"The whole youth set-up is in a really good place at Hull FC and there are some exciting times ahead with some of the talent currently breaking into the first-team squad. And I have always felt that one of my key strengths during my first coaching spell at the club was coaching the youngsters.

"I think one of the big reasons why John wanted to bring me in for 2025 was my knowledge of the club. I'm very, very passionate about Hull FC, its supporter base and the city as a whole."

Last, who also assists Shaun Wane at international level with England, rejoins the club at a time when they are struggling at the wrong end of Super League.

Hull director of rugby Richie Myler said: "Throughout the many conversations we’ve had over the last few months, John has made it clear that he wants an assistant coach alongside him who knows the club from top to bottom – and Andy fits that job description perfectly.

“Not only is he one of the most highly regarded and respected assistant coaches in the game, even with a four-year spell away from Hull, he knows this club like the back of his hand.

"His energy and passion for Hull FC will be an incredibly positive asset for us moving into 2025 and beyond."