HULL KR are understood to have been dealt a pre-derby blow as star centre Kris Welham is a major injury doubt.
Despite being named in the Robins' 19-man squad, the Mail believes the 25-year-old will not feature at the Etihad Stadium.
Although Welham returned in last week's 44-18 victory over Wakefield, he is again being troubled by a shoulder injury which he first suffered in the 26-18 Challenge Cup win over St Helens on April 20.
Initially diagnosed as bad bruising, the problem is refusing to go away and may now need further tests to determine exactly how long he will be out for.
The news will come as a blow to coach Craig Sandercock, who admits Hull FC will be a tougher team to beat than they were on Good Friday.
Since Rovers 23-10 success at the KC Stadium at Easter, Hull have picked up form to boast seven wins from their last eight games.
While Rovers have won just once in their last four, Sandercock knows his side will have to show the same desire as last season's corresponding fixture when they came from 30-18 down to win 32-30 in the last minute.
"I'd say Hull are a different proposition than the first time we played them this year," he said. "They are playing with some confidence and going well.
"We need to turn up with the right attitude. The fact that we won last year means nothing.
"We were pretty pleased with the second-half performance against Wakefield. But we need to play like that for both halves if we want to compete this week."
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