MARK Calderwood's chances of winning a new deal with Hull FC have improved after being told he does not need surgery on his damaged hamstring.

And the winger may yet be offered a chance to stay at the KC Stadium with a new modified contract to reflect his recent injury problems.

The 28-year-old former international winger has not played for Hull since damaging his hamstring in the derby game in mid-July.

It was the third hamstring injury of a miserable 12 months for Calderwood which has seen the ex-Leeds man play just four times for Hull.

Out of contract at the end of the current campaign, Calderwood's two-year tenure with the Black and Whites was placed in serious doubt following his latest injury which was feared could rule him out for up to a year.

However, after seeing a specialist in London the winger has now been told he should make a full recovery and could even be back in time for the start of pre-season training in November.

"Mark has been told it will take about four months to recover from the injury, which takes us to November," coach Richard Agar confirmed to the Mail.

"It is good news for Mark because he's had a tough year."

Hull have already reinforced their outside backs for next season with teenage star Reece Lyne signing a long-term deal and Will Sharp brought in from Harlequins.

However, Agar has previously stated the club have not ruled out re-signing Calderwood and while the coach had nothing to add on the matter, the Mail understands any deal could be dependent on the player taking a drop in wages.

Sources close to the player have told the Mail Hull are being cautious regarding Calderwood given his three substantial injuries in the last year.

The Black and Whites may still keep the player, but on a reduced contract that will be made up with incentives depending on how many matches he plays.