THUNDER MOVE TO WELCOME WARRINGTON DUO

Newcastle Thunder have bolstered their squad with the signing of Ellis Robson for the remainder of the 2022 season.

The club have also secured the services of young Wire half-back Riley Dean on a season-long loan, with the Super League side retaining a recall option on the youngster.

Robson is a 23-year-old graduate of the Wolves academy system and earned his place in the senior squad in 2018.

He made his Betfred Super League debut in September 2020 in a 32-12 win over Hull FC and has played a total of 15 top-flight appearances to date, with his seven Wolves appearances supplemented by games with Salford Red Devils and Toulouse Olympique.

A tough and durable forward with a strong work ethic, Robson demonstrated these attributes in one of his first Super League performances, playing the full 80 minutes and making 41 tackles against the Devils.

Adept in all positions in the pack Robson also brings a wealth of Championship experience with 25 second-tier appearances to his name, following loan stints with Bradford Bulls, Dewsbury Rams, Rochdale Hornets and Widnes Vikings.

20-year-old Dean is a highly rated product of the Warrington academy and is a member of the club’s first-team squad alongside England internationals Gareth Widdop and George Williams.

He made his senior debut back in 2019 and has earned five appearances for the Wire to date and has also featured for Dewsbury Rams and York City Knights whilst on loan in 2021.

Dean qualifies for Ireland internationally and was named in the Wolfhounds squad ahead of the 2021 Rugby League World Cup qualifiers, although is yet to earn his first international cap.

Both players have already linked up with the Newcastle Thunder squad and are eligible for selection for this week’s fixtures against Rovers and Sheffield Eagles.

Newcastle Thunder director of rugby Denis Betts said “We’re pleased to welcome Ellis and Riley into the Thunder squad and we’re looking forward to working with them both.

“Ellis joins us as a signing and is a highly rated player who is going to give us some additional quality in our pack.

“He can play prop, second row or loose forward so is a versatile operator and is going to afford us options for the rest of the season.

“Riley is a very promising half-back who is rated very highly and will continue his development with us.

“There is a recall option in place should Daryl need him, but we’re looking forward to working with him and seeing what he brings to the group.”