Shaun Edwards has been handed a double vote of confidence ahead of tomorrow's voyage into the intimidating Boulevard atmosphere.

After being named captain for the clash with Hull Sharks by coach Matthew Elliott, the Great Britain ace won the backing of club skipper Graeme Bradley who quashed stories that a clash of personalities between the star duo was seriously disrupting team morale.

Writing in tonight's York-shire Sports Bradley blasts back at the rumour mongers. He says: "I have finally lost my patience and tolerance with all questions and insinuations that I don't like Shaun.

"No one likes to be on the bench and at Shaun's stage of his career he, like me, is desperate to play as much as possible but like everyone in our squad it depends upon performance.

"Rugby League is a team game comprising people with varying characters and interests. Shaun and myself have similar characters on the field. We are extremely competitive. I enjoy playing with people with this desire, " added Bradley who is again absent tomorrow with a broken nose.

The visit of the champions for the Sharks' second home game on their return to the big time has caught the imagination of the Hull public and an all-ticket crowd of around 10,000 is being confidently predicted.

Elliott expects a hostile reception and believes Edwards' leadership qualities could be vital.

"Shaun has seen it all before and I think it is something he relishes," said Elliott who is also lacking last week's skipper Robbie Paul who starred for the Kiwis in yesterday's Test win over Australia in Auckland.

Elliott has named an 18-man squad which includes hooker Jimmy Lowes but a decision on his fitness will be made as late as possible.

"There is still a question mark about him. He trained well on Thursday but he pulled up a bit sore yesterday.

"I might leave a final decision until tomorrow," said Elliott.

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