Fitzgibbon heading for Hull

Fitzgibbon: Big fan of Super League

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Veteran Australian Test forward Craig Fitzgibbon has agreed to join Hull FC next season.

The 31-year-old back rower, who plays for Sydney Roosters, has signed a 12-month deal with an option of a second year.

His move comes after the Airlie Birds' original target, countryman Michael Crocker, was denied a visa.

"I am really happy about this deal," said Fitzgibbon, whose father Alan played for rivals Hull KR in the early 1970s. "It's all happened so quickly that it has come as a bit of a shock but I now can't wait to come across to England."

He added: "I am a big fan of Super League and I'm fully aware that Hull are a big club with massive ambitions."

The 6ft 3in, 15st 5lb forward, who has won 19 caps for the Kangaroos, became the highest scoring forward in the history of the NRL in 2006 when he broke the record set by former Wigan and Leeds forward David Furner.

Fitzgibbon has previously played for Illawarra, St George and Sydney Roosters and won the Clive Churchill man-of-the-match award when the Roosters won the Premiership in 2002.

Hull coach Richard Agar said: "Craig will bring a lot to the team both on and off the field. He will bring consistency on the field and he can play various roles within your team.

"In addition the youngsters here will benefit from having a player like him around."