Shaun has created a team bond and club mentality for England

HULL FC’S LAST DISCUSSES TODAY'S AUSTRALIA TEST

- By DAN TOMLINSON

Hull FC's Andy Last, who is part of the England coaching setup

(HULL FC)

t feels right that one of rugby league's biggest international events has an influx of Hull blood amongst it.

After all, the city is one of the sport's true hotbeds, with its two professional clubs, Hull FC and Hull KR, very much a part of its fabric and foundation.

It’s not just any blood involved either, with Andy Last, one of the most passionate Black and Whites there is, ready to do his bit as England assistant coach, going up against the might and prestige of Australia in the first Ashes Test at Wembley today.

Last won't be on his own either, joined in Shaun Wane's setup by two more Hull lads in Mikey Lewis and Jez Litten. And while the duo, Lewis set to start at halfback and Litten in the 19-man squad, now sit in the enemy’s camp at Hull KR, the only allegiance that matters in North London is the England one.

For Last, Lewis, and Litten, there's a connection now at international level that puts club rivalry aside, with the trio coming together against the Kangaroo machine and set to give it all they've got.

“We're England representatives now,’ Last, speaking to the Mail, said. “Your club affiliations are put to one side once you step into the England team.

“That is one of Shaun's biggest strengths - he has created a real team and club mentality. There's a real connection with the group. Shaun is very big on team connection and creating that chemistry and that bond, and I think it’s been evident when we've played - we've been very, very successful. We've only suffered defeat once, and that was against Samoa in the World Cup semifinal.