I would also be worried would be what 3 of them would be like around training on a daily basis, imagine a lot of sulking would be taking place.

And worringly all 4 are ones that would be part of the so called leadership group. Sadly the recruitment/retention policy or plan has been shambolic since Motu left and all the good work done then has been wasted. We have a lot of cap tied up in players that have shown over the past few seasons thei attitude is somewhat lacking in terms of work ethic if they don't like the, training, the coach or some other reason which is inexcusable. One thing I hope the club has learnt is that the option of a further year should always be under the clubs control not a players especially when now very much in the twilight of their careers.

Thankfully we now have a proven and experienced Head Coach who we hope can deal with any player regardless of name appropriately in term of any attitude/application issues, With certain player deals running out at the end of the upcoming season at least if we can not move anyone on then hopefully they will want to perform to earn deals preferably elsewhere.

Looks like Hookem could now be going to Cas. Already been doing some training there.
Also a couple of the younger players have apparently been told they are free to leave if they can find another club.

Any names?

Shame about Hookem, as think he has potential, but was poorly treated by Hodgson last season, so can understand him wanting to move to another club.

Wasn't told any names Dave. Just Hookem. Can see why Cas would be interested with him being able to cover both half back and hooker.

I did post a few weeks ago that Jacob Hookem had been offered a contract by Castleford but was unsure if he ever signed it or not. When Tony Smith became coach i wondered if he would change his mind and stay but Radford must have persuaded him where his future lies.

I agree Dave but tbf Houghtons wages won't be on the cap anyways so I can understand why he's on a roling contract

Its a shame if Hookem has signed for Cas as would have liked to have seen him given a chance at Hull, but after the way he was treated by BH I can understand why he may feel his future is away from Hull. That said with the club recruiting Truman and Clifford as our halfs and the likes of Ben McNamara and Lovodua realistically Hookems chances of first team games would be limited in the halfs. The same at 9 with the likes of Houghton, Dwyer, Balmforth and again Lovodua as cover his chances would be limited.

Think we’ve done well to do the business we have, given the constraints.
The real change in personnel won’t happen until we get the cap room next year (which will be substantial).
Hopefully the change in culture that a proven head coach brings will be the major positive, and is better than any signing.
I’m not expecting miracles next season. Just hope the club pulls together, and the fans can start to feel positive again (win or lose).

If we made sixth but could say that we competed in every game that would do for me next year.

Maybe get a bit of luck with the Cup draw.