York Wasps were today expected to complete the signing of talented Australian-born international centre Andrew Lambert.

The 23-year-old, released by Workington at the end of last season, will join up with the Wasps when he arrives back from his native country towards the end of the year.

That means he will miss the Boxing Day opener against Doncaster Dragons at Huntington Stadium but should come into contention for the trip to Keighley on January 2.

York chief executive Ann Garvey has faxed a one-season contract to Lambert in Australia and was hopeful the move would be completed today.

The Wasps are also having talks with two players at Super League clubs with a view to signing on loan, but nothing is expected to develop until after the new year.

Although born Down Under, highly-rated Lambert was one of only two non-Super League players to feature in both Scotland's games in the summer's Tri-Nations competition. He scored two tries in their victory over Wales and showed the kind of form which had attracted the attention of Super League clubs.

York coach Dean Robinson discussed Lambert's attributes with Scotland coach Shaun McRae who believed the centre had great potential.

Robinson said: "It was obvious that we needed to strengthen our three-quarter line to give us some more intensity across the board for players in the squad to be pushed for places.

"I am delighted he has joined us. He is very strong defensively and he is a good size for a three-quarter. He will add experience to a young back line."

After a move to Barrow Border Raiders fell through, former Manly ace Lambert issued a 'come and get me' plea to Super League clubs but it is the Wasps who have come up with his prized signature.

He had agreed to sign for Barrow last month but called off the move because his mother was seriously ill in Sydney. Having returned home to be with her, he is happy with the situation and is expected to fly back to Britain on December 29.

He becomes the only overseas player on York's books this season following the departure of Australian John Strange. He joins another former Workington three-quarter, Matt Woodcock, at Huntington Stadium.

Wasps supporters who have bought season tickets can collect them from the club's offices at Huntington Stadium this week (9am to 5pm). They can also be collected on Christmas Eve, although the offices will be closed at lunchtime, and on Boxing Day when York start their season against Doncaster Dragons.

Don't miss the first part of the 2000 season preview in the Evening Press tomorrow.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.