Kennedy returns for Knights

Test forward Ben Kennedy has been recalled to the Newcastle side for Friday night's National Rugby League blockbuster against the Bulldogs at Energy Australia Stadium.

Kennedy has been out of action since injuring his wrist in the club's round one win over the New Zealand Warriors. He comes straight into the starting side, with Matthew Jobson reverting back to the interchange bench.

Former New South Wales fullback Mark Hughes has also won a recall to the starting line-up after coming off the bench in last weekend's win over Melbourne. Hughes has only just returned after undergoing knee surgery.