Why have an official press conference then, if the media then cannot report what was said?

A clean slate for everyone. His role is officially head coach but seems he will have full control of all rugby matters at the club.

It may well be as a mark of respect due to the timing of the King leading Royal procession.

"I'm really excited. I wasn't expecting this position to come up so soon. I've been out for a little while and I really wanted to get back in. I've got my love for coaching back and to get this opportunity I'm very very grateful for. I've lived in this city for a few years now and I know what a big club is Hull FC is. You don't quite know how big it is until you live here. This is a rugby league city. It lives and breathes it. To be head coach of FC is a real honour for me."

Willie Poching has left Wakefield
The club have said he won't be joining Hull FC in any way.

Smith on brother Brian
"There is a bit of nostalgia there for me. I spoke to my eldest brother Brian who has had, and still has, a tremendous influence on my career about coming and joining a former club of his. He said I've finally come to the right one."

It's the full package for Tony
"I get my desire and my success by trying to encourage groups of people, not only the playing staff but the whole organisation. I care about the whole organsiation. I care about being involved in a good business and a good sporting club - one to be proud of."

Fair to say he'll put his heart and soul into everything at Hull FC

Tony on his first day
"The hard work starts today. This is my official first day. I've had a couple of meetings with Adam (Pearson) and James (Clark) and I'm really excited about what we can do toegther at this club, together with the fans and the playing staff. I'm encouraged about what I've seen so far."

Playing squad
Tony and Adam were asked by Hull Live about playing changes, and said there could be some movement, but they both said it's a clean slate for everyone - from the most senior player to the youngest. Everyone has a chance. There will be some announcements to come in terms of backroom staff, but they gave nothing away today.

Adam Pearson statement
"I'm delighted to welcome Tony to the club. It is a massively important appointment for the club. You can see what has happened to the playing side over the last two years. The performances on the pitch haven't been good enough. The league status has not been good enough, the discipline has not been good enough and the injury rehabilitation has not been good enough. I felt at the end of the season and after what happened against Hull KR that we had to take the action that I took."