YORK City Knights announced a major coup with the signing of Castleford Tigers forward Chris Clarkson.

The Knights are believed to have beaten off competition from a number of other clubs to win the signature of Clarkson, who was recently in action for Castleford in the Super League play-offs.

Clarkson is the second vastly experienced forward to have joined York for 2020 following the signing of Hull FC’s Danny Washbrook.

The 29-year-old has played 244 Super League games, scoring 30 tries, to date for Leeds Rhinos, Widnes Vikings, Hull KR and Castleford.

Clarkson came through the ranks at Leeds and made his first grade debut in 2010, going on to win two Super League titles, a Challenge Cup and a World Club Challenge.

He has also earned representative honours with three caps for England Knights in 2012.

York head coach James Ford said: “I’m really pleased to sign a player of Chris’ ability.

"After doing our due diligence on him it was clear from everyone we spoke to that he came with a glowing reference with regard to his attitude and the standards he adheres to both on and off the field.

“I’m looking for Chris to be one of the leaders in our pack in 2020, and I feel he will have a positive impact on our team, and be someone who will help further the culture we are trying to develop, especially amongst our younger players.

“At 29 years old he brings a lot of experience but he still has some of his best years ahead of him, he is probably at peak physical shape for a forward.

“I’m looking forward to seeing him promote the ball a bit in his forward play, which is a slightly different role to what he did at Castleford but one I’m sure he will enjoy.

“It’s a mark of just how far the club has come that we have secured a signing of this standard.

“Two years ago I probably wouldn’t have even answered the phone to his agent, but now we are in a position where we are an attractive proposition to players like Chris.

“That is down to the fantastic work behind the scenes at York and also thanks to sponsors and supporters for their continued and growing support.”