With the 2016 season fast approaching, one of the first things Trent Hodkinson is looking forward to is the opportunity to work with his new halves partner, Jarrod Mullen.
Even though the pair missed out on a practice run together during the Club’s trial period, the new recruit has plenty of confidence that he and Mullen will gel come Round 1.
“I think we just have to work extra hard at training. We’ve been combining well and been out on the training paddock as much as we can,” Hodkinson said on Tuesday.
“I have no doubts it will be fine come round one.”
While the NSW Blues half only arrived at the Club at the beginning of November, his association with Mullen stretches back further.
It’s something that’s helped the new Knights teammates understand each other’s intricacies out on the football field.
“I’ve known Jarrod beforehand anyway and we are good mates, so I’m looking forward to starting the combination,” the playmaker said.
“We spend a lot of time off the field as well which is nice. That’s only going to help.”
From all accounts, Hodkinson says the partnership has already built a strong foundation.
“I know Jarrod and I will take a little bit of time, but the pleasing thing is that on the footy field, it’s not taking as long as what I thought,” he said.
“It’s happening right away and I’m looking forward to working alongside him."
Hodkinson is known for his ability to take control of play and he predicts his strengths will allow Mullen to shine at five-eighth.
“It’s something I really like doing as a halfback, you like to get the hands on the footy as much as you can,” he said.
“I’m looking forward to easing a bit of pressure off Jarrod. He’s at his best when he’s running the footy, wide of the ruck and he has a great kicking game and passing game.
“Hopefully I can complement him in that way and we work well together.”
