York City Knights have confirmed the signing of Ireland international Ronan Michael on a one-year loan deal from Betfred Super League side Huddersfield Giants.
Michael initially signed for the Giants ahead of the 2019 season before spending 2020 with NRL club Canberra Raiders alongside England internationals Josh Hodgson and Elliot Whitehead.
The 21-year-old returned to Huddersfield making his first team debut before spells on loan with Whitehaven and Swinton Lions in the Betfred Championship.
On the move, Michael said: “To be honest, I played at York twice last year when I was on loan at Swinton and we faced a very good side but, more than that, the atmosphere from the fans was outstanding. They don’t stop chanting for the whole eighty minutes.
“The facility at the stadium as well is absolutely outstanding and they’re clearly a very good side. As Fordy [James Ford] has said to me, we’re looking to push even further this year and try to make it all the way up.
“It’s a very competitive side and I’m really looking forward to getting amongst it, getting around the lads and I’m really keen to rip in with a good Championship side in a competitive competition.”
Knights Head Coach James Ford added: “I’m pleased to strengthen our middle options with Ronan. He’s a hard-working and tough player that’s keen to add little bits to his game here and there.
“I’m really looking forward to working with him and helping him fulfil his potential.”
York will kick their Betfred Championship season off in the Premier Sports’ first live televised fixture against Featherstone Rovers on Monday 31 January.
