HEAD coach James Ford is hoping York City Knights have a "right player on our hands" after persuading Halifax prop Adam Robinson to join the club on a permanent basis.

Influential pack star Robinson heads a list of new recruits for the Knights' forward roster officially announced by the club today.

Joining him are Ronan Dixon, signed from Wakefield Trinity's academy, BARLA Great Britain tourist Chris Siddons, Coventry Bears duo Liam Thompson and Joe Batchelor, and prop Micky Learmonth, who has agreed new terms.

Robinson, 29, played 13 times for Championship big guns Halifax last season before joining the Knights on loan and scoring three tries in four appearances for Ford's team. His recall by Fax coincided with the Knights' off-field troubles.

Having since been released from The Shay, he effectively becomes one of the old heads in a new-look Knights pack alongside Press Player of the Year Ed Smith and marquee signing Tim Spears, the former Featherstone Rovers captain.

"It's a real boost for us," said Ford of the latest prize capture.

"Adam has played at the top end of the Championship for a number of years. He gives us something a bit different in the middle. He's penetrative with a bit of an offload game.

"We need to get him happy, fit and focused, and if we get him in the right place mentally, we'll have a right player on our hands.

"The signs so far are great. He's been pulling some of the younger players out for extras and setting some standards in the conditioning, and I hope he continues."

Former Wakefield academy ace Robinson made his professional bow for Doncaster in 2006 before having a spell with Oldham.

He then starred in Dewsbury's League One-winning campaign of 2009 before switching to neighbours Batley Bulldogs ahead of the 2011 season. He joined Halifax a year later.

Added Ford: "He'll be an outstanding acquisition for us as long as we get him happy, fit and focused. I'm really happy to have him here."