YORK City Knights have loaned out centre Tyme Dow-Nikau to North Wales Crusaders for the remainder of the 2021 season, with a two-week recall clause.

Dow-Nikau joined York from Betfred League One side North Wales in the off-season and the centre has gone on to make four appearances for the Knights this year, with his involvement somewhat limited through injury.

The decision has taken many by surprise given that Dow-Nikau started for York in their 34-6 victory over Oldham at the LNER Community Stadium last weekend.

Despite Dow-Nikau's departure, head coach James Ford still has plenty of options at centre, including Ryan Atkins, Liam Salter and Jason Bass, with winger Perry Whiteley also capable of featuring in the position too.

Explaining the decision, Ford said: “Tyme is going out on loan to get some back-to-back games and then we can get a clearer picture of where he’s at.

"We believe he has the physical attributes to make a real impact for us if he can tidy up in some small areas.

"He is going to a good coach (Anthony Murray) who will be very beneficial for Tyme and his development.”

On his move, Dow-Nikau added: “It’ll be good for me to get a run of games under my belt and help the club pick up some wins.

“I’ve still followed the club since I left so I saw about the move to Stadium ZipWorld and it’s a really exciting time.

“I’m looking forward to ripping in and doing a job for the team. It’ll be good to finally play in front of the Crusaders fans and I’m sure they’ve really missed the games during the pandemic.”

Murray said: “It was a real shame the pandemic meant we didn’t get to see Tyme in a Crusaders shirt so it’s great to have him back on board. I’d like to thank York and James Ford for their support with this deal.”