Flashing firmware to EdgeRouter 4 via USB hub

I am trying to flash OpenWrt firmware onto a new EdgeRouter 4 from my external secure harddisk. However, when connected directly, my harddisk does not get enough power. So, I decided to connect it to my ER4 via a USB hub that is connected to a power supply. My harddisk managed to start up and I was able to key in the passcode to unlock the harddisk. However, usb start command does not detect the harddisk, only the USB hub. Anyone has any idea on how to workaround this issue?

Update:
I do notice that I can transfer the necessary files in using SCP. Is this a workable alternative?

skip the USB hub, skip the encrypted drive, use a flash drive ?

If I could, I would have.