Injured Hull FC star Gareth Ellis desperate to make early return

GARETH Ellis will do everything possible to be back sooner than anticipated, says Hull FC coach Peter Gentle.

Ellis is awaiting news on his foot injury having been sent for a second scan last night, with Gentle keeping his own counsel regarding the England star's length of absence until all the results are in.

But while still unsure of the time frame involved, Gentle says Ellis' character will mean he'll be determined to make his Hull debut as soon as is possible.

"Gareth is doing it tough at the minute," Gentle said.

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"There's no easy way to handle injuries, but I know he will do everything possible to get back on the field a week before he is due back.

"Everyone talks about the big disappointment for the club and the fans of Gareth being out, but put yourself in his boots.

"He was captaining the side for the first time, at a new club against his old club, it was a massive night for him that he had taken away.

"I've kept Gareth away this week, he's been ringing wanting to come in but I've kept him away for the time being until we get the results and we can plan his rehab."

Hull are hopeful they'll have a better understanding of Ellis' foot injury within the next 24 hours after initial assessments proved inconclusive.

The second-row injured his left foot in the warm up at Headingley last Friday, with initial fears suggesting he had suffered a repeat of the injury which sidelined him in the NRL last season.

That fear at least appears to have been allayed, although the exact extent of the injury is yet to be determined.

"Gareth saw one of the best surgeons in the country the other night and he wanted to send him for more CT scans.

"Until then we are still in the dark," added Gentle. "If the surgeon can't tell us what is wrong then there is no point me trying to do it.

"When we find out, and until we hear anything different, it is pointless speculating or starting rumours and getting everyone gossiping about it.

"The black and white is we don't know yet and hopefully we'll know more soon."

Ellis' absence means a call-up for Ben Crooks in the only change to Gentle's 19-man squad for tomorrow night's clash with Bradford Bulls.

Danny Tickle had been expected to be in contention for a first appearance of the season, but his continued recovery from a bicep injury sustained last year means he misses out.

And according to Gentle it could be another two weeks at least before the second row returns.

"Danny was never in contention for this week and I doubt he will be in contention for next week," added Gentle.

"I expect him back in the next few weeks."