Hull FC have made one of their most prestigious ever signings after capturing much sought-after England international Gareth Ellis.
Hull FC thrilled after winning race to sign England international
Hull FC have made one of their most prestigious ever signings after capturing much sought-after England international Gareth Ellis on a three-year deal, which will start in November.
The 30-year-old former Leeds Rhinos second rower attracted the interest of a number of Super League clubs after announcing his intention to return to England from NRL club Wests Tigers ahead of schedule.
Ellis had a year to run on his contract with the Sydney club and, despite earning rave reviews Down Under, opted to return home for the new season.
One of Britain's more successful exports to Australia, Ellis thought long and hard about where he wanted to play after having a few clubs express an interest.
After discussing a move to Hull with coach Peter Gentle and director of rugby Shaun McRae, Ellis was persuaded that his next Super League stop should be in Hull.
Interest
"I was lucky to have a few clubs interested, but I've been listening to Hull and to the ambition they have got and the prospects they're trying to put in place for the future and the bottom line for me was that it was a great time to be involved with Hull FC," Ellis said on the club's website.
"I did a lot of research into the club and speaking to the likes of Peter, Adam Pearson and Shaun McRae, I really started to share their enthusiasm and I believe the club can be anything it wants to be.
"I said originally that I would maybe like to return to one of my old clubs or my hometown club in Castleford but when I looked at it and thought about it more, I realised I still really wanted to win things and achieve things and I really believe I can do that at Hull FC."
McRae did not hide his delight at luring Ellis to the KC Stadium, saying a signing of this calibre sends a clear message that the club are determined to bring in some silverware.
"We are absolutely thrilled to have completed a deal for a player of Gareth's undoubted talent and this will send a stark message to our fans and our rivals that we are club committed to making significant strides over the coming years," he said.
"To be a successful club and one challenging for honours you need players of Gareth's ability. He is a world-class footballer, a fine athlete and terrific professional and we can't wait to start working with him.
"He'll add another dimension to our play on the field and will bring experience and leadership to the culture we are trying to embrace and promote off the field.
"I firmly believe this will be one of the last major signings to come from the NRL, albeit Gareth returning home, and we are delighted that it is a signing for Hull FC."
