YORK City Knights have bolstered their forward pack for a tough run of March fixtures by bringing Colton Roche in on loan from Huddersfield Giants.

The 24-year-old Ireland international returns to York for a second spell having made 27 appearances for the Knights in 2014 and 2015. He helped them top the League One table in 2014 and was a stoic performer on the field the following year despite the club's off-field issues.

He has since played in the Championship with Sheffield Eagles, Featherstone Rovers and Bradford, where he impressed enough in the full-time environment, despite the Bulls' relegation, to earn a shot at Super League with the Giants.

Roche said: "It's great to get some quality playing time with a quality team.

"I know the club well and it is an improved environment since the last time I played there.

"I will also be pleased to work with James Ford again as he helped me get to Super League, and will give my best efforts to help the team achieve all the success we are capable of."

After Sunday's game at Coventry Bears, the Knights face potential promotion rivals in Oldham, Keighley and Doncaster, all in March, plus a Challenge Cup fourth round tie against Championship side Swinton.

Knights boss James Ford, who coached Roche in 2015, said: “Colton is a powerful and direct runner who will bring some more intent to our defensive contact.

"I really enjoyed working with him previously and was impressed by his leadership.

“He is highly regarded at Huddersfield and we are very pleased to get him on board.

"He's coming from a good environment and I'm sure he'll help strengthen us on and off the field.

“I’d like to thank the Knights supporters for getting behind the club and facilitating signings like this.”