FORMER York City Knights back-rower Sam Scott, a potential target this year, has penned a one-year deal at Sheffield.

The 26-year-old returns to the Eagles after a five-year absence, having starred for Mark Aston's men during their Championship Grand Final seasons of 2011 and 2012, picking up a winner's medal in 2012.

He had a year at York in 2013 - being named The Press Player of the Year and Players' Player of the Year in the Knights' relegation season - before moving to Batley and staying in the Championship.

He was a regular top performer for the Bulldogs before injury hampered his 2016 campaign.

“It has been a few years since we last worked with Sam, but I am really looking forward to coaching him again," Aston told the Eagles website, as he steps up preparations for the 2017 campaign following the uncertainty surrounding the club.

"He has matured greatly as a player in the years since he last played for Sheffield, and I think he has become a better player too."

Aston is also confident he can help Scott regain the form which made him one of the best back-rowers in the Championship.

“It wasn’t long ago when people were talking of Sam being right up there with the best in this division,” Aston continued.

“He had a season at Batley when John Kear was talking in those kinds of terms, and we believe he can get back to that standard with Sheffield.

“He has been bright since he came back through the door, and we think he can be a real player for us in 2017.”