Super League focus: Hull FC & Huddersfield

Every day until Super League returns to our Sky Sports screens on Thursday night, Barrie McDermott, Phil Clarke and Terry O'Connor will cast their eyes over each club gearing up for the new campaign.

On Friday, Hull FC get their Super League campaign underway when they host Huddersfield at the KCOM Stadium.

Hull FC will be aiming to defend their Challenge Cup title but will also be eyeing a first Grand Final appearance since 2006.

Huddersfield have not exactly performed over the last two years and will be hoping that they can once again mix it up with the top teams in 2018. Plenty of stars on show on Friday night including that man Jermaine McGilvary.

HULL FC

Terry: After back-to-back Challenge Cup victories, Hull are right in the mix for Old Trafford. They're a big, powerful side - and can all play. Gareth Ellis and Mahe Fonua will be two big losses - but you'd still expect the Black & Whites to be there or thereabouts with the squad they have.
PREDICTION: 3rd

Barrie: They were eighty minutes away from Old Trafford last year - and I think they could go one better in 2018.

Gareth Ellis won't play this year so Danny Houghton and Scott Taylor will lead from the front and Mahe Fonua will be another big loss - but as they continue to improve under Lee Radford, a repeat of their 2006 Grand Final appearance is a realistic goal.
PREDICTION: 2nd

Phil: One of six teams that I think can win the Grand Final. They look a solid club, consistent in most games, it would be a massive shock if they do not end up in the Top 4.
PREDICTION: 4th

HUDDERSFIELD

Terry: Jake Mamo is vital - but the Giants' key man down the years has been Danny Brough, another year older with a point to prove, following a sad exit from the World Cup. Plenty of power up front in the likes of Sebastine Ikahihifo - but they need their skillful players to stand up.
PREDICTION: 9th

Barrie: Slow and steady last year, with a couple of inconsistent patches. A back line including Jake Mamo, Leroy Cudjoe and the best winger in the game Jermaine McGilvary will be a real threat - with Sebastine Ikahihifo leading the pack, and Danny Brough in the halves, they look good to make the Top Eight after 23 rounds.
PREDICTION: 8th

Phil: Everyone talks about Ben Barba - but I think that Jake Mamo was the most impressive full-back in 2017. If he plays every game he might well end up as top try scorer - but I don't think that will be enough to get the Giants into the top half of the table.
PREDICTION: 8th