Hull have named new signing James Webster in their initial squad for Sunday's 205th derby at the KC Stadium, even though he is still waiting for a British passport.

The Australian scrum-half, who was released by Hull KR earlier this season, has until Saturday to get his application for British citizenship rubber-stamped by the Home Office if he is to make his debut against his former team-mates.

"At this moment we will keep a spot open as long as we can for Webbo," said Hull coach Richard Agar.

"I am fairly relaxed about it. If James can play then fantastic, if he can't, so be it because we view James as long term at this club and it is not just all about one game.

"I am sure he will become a fairly integral part of this club in the future.

"It is not a case of we're desperate to play him because it is Hull KR. It is purely we need his qualities in our side."

Webster will not be eligible to play for Hull in next Sunday's Carnegie Challenge Cup semi-final against Wakefield, having played for Rovers in their fourth-round win over Workington.

Hull KR, meanwhile, are boosted by the return of former Hull full-back Shaun Briscoe as well as utility back Ben Cockayne, winger Peter Fox and back row forward Chris Chester as they look to make it four derby wins in a row.

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