Jordan Abdull is under no illusion of the importance behind Hull FC’s pre-season campaign, not least for himself.
Back at the club where it all started back in 2014, the 28-year-old endured a difficult season in 2024, which was blighted by injury.
But the opportunity to return to his homeland in West Hull has refocused the halfback, with him eyeing up a strong 2025 campaign.
However, to enjoy a positive season in 2025, there are some hard yards to make up during the winter months, as Abdull draws on his past experiences during pre-season campaigns.
“Just going off my experience from last year, I didn’t have much of a pre-season last year. I got through about six games and then got injured.
“Looking back to about three or four years ago, when I had a really good pre-season and I was on the field for every session, I had a great season and managed to play for my country at the end.
“So speaking from experience, pre-season is everything. It’s the only real time you can test your body. Once the season starts, all your focus goes into the game that comes at the end of the week.
“Pre-season is more a case of what you’re doing day in, day out and building you up for the whole season. A big pre-season is paramount for having a successful club and a successful season.”
Spells at London, Hull KR and Catalans have bridged the gap since his last outing with the Black & Whites at the end of the 2018 season.
He’s been wasting no time during the off-season, and he’s carrying that momentum into the start of pre-season training down at the University of Hull.
“I made a real conscious effort during the off-season to make sure I lost a bit of weight, which I did, but I’ve still got a fair bit to go. But I’ve given myself a good starting position compared to where I was about two months ago,” he said.
“That’s been able to put me in good stead for a strong two or three month pre-season to get myself physically right for the season ahead.
“It’s not just me – it’s a lot of the boys. I think everyone’s come back in really good shape. Even in some of the running tests we’ve been doing, some people are absolutely flying, so you can see the work that they’ve all been putting in.
“And I think John’s been pretty happy with what he’s seen so far. He set his stall out early when we had a brief meeting at the end of last season, discussing what sort of standards he expects.
“Everyone bought into that straight away and that’s been great to see.”
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