Castleford coach Lee Radford is confident Joe Westerman will handle the reception he receives if he plays against Hull FC this Sunday, following his social media scandal.

A video of Westerman performing a lewd sexual act went viral on social media and was picked up by mainstream media earlier this week.

The forward has apologised for his actions, been fined by the Tigers and ordered to do community service.

However, Radford has confirmed that Westerman remains available for selection for the Super League season opener this weekend.

“He’s up for playing,” he said.

“He’s alright, he’s Joe. He’s been himself I suppose.

“Monday knocked us about a little bit but since then he’s trained well and put his best foot forward for selection.

“He’s one of a number of players who have had a good pre-season and players I’m looking forward to seeing what they can do as a collective for 2023.”

👊 Pre-season '23. No stone unturned.

Be there for our first home game of the year 🎟️ https://t.co/dUotBGDAzi#COYF pic.twitter.com/PXz5LJ6Xb9

— Castleford Tigers (@CTRLFC) February 17, 2023

The back-rower will face a hostile reaction at the Black & Whites, if he takes the field, and Radford says playing well will help silence the fired up away crowd.

“I think the easy one is to play well, that’s the best way to silence a crowd.

“But then as a group we want to play well, as a team we want to play well and knock our first result off of the season.

“I’m sure Joe will be as motivated as everyone else on the field if he is to participate.

“I’ve seen him, he’s had some, throughout his career, he’s driven a rocky road.

“He’s had some other setbacks throughout his career off the field but he’s always responded in a good manner and mentally, he’s a tough fella.”