NEW recruit Albert Talipeau has not ruled out being a York City Knights player on a permanent deal next season.

The Samoan star, who moved to Huntington Stadium a week ago in a loan contract from Super League side Wakefield, made his Knights' debut as a substitute in the 44-24 win over Workington.

And he has since told the Evening Press he would consider staying on permanently next year.

"It may be an option," he said. "Since I've been here, the coach, the chief executive and the players have been awesome."

The 23-year-old former Sydney Roosters star moved to the Wildcats at the start of this season and has played in Super League several times, but he has spent much time recently in the Under-21s side.

"I just wanted to enjoy myself," he said of his decision to switch to York. "I don't think that playing U21s was helping me a great deal, and it was good to meet a new bunch of blokes and play first team rugby.

"The aim now is to help York to get promoted and also to play with a new bunch of blokes and be happy, and make the coach, the players and the fans happy."

As for his debut, in which he gave a hard-working display, he said: "It was a good hit-out for my first game. I was happy with my defence and getting the ball in my hands to go forward for the team, it was good.

"All the boys were awesome. Chris Langley and Simon Friend especially talked to me all the time and I felt comfortable alongside them. They made my job easier."

Talipeau in turn received praise from coach Richard Agar after his debut. "It was difficult for him," said Agar.

"He got a lot of ball and he's got more to his game then carting it up but it was a difficult game for a debut as he's had limited time with us. It was good for him to get that hit-out and that game-time."

Updated: 10:31 Tuesday, September 07, 2004