Zak Hardaker signs two year deal to join York Knights

The 34-year-old former England and Great Britain international makes the move after two seasons with Hull FC, where he made 46 appearances and was named the club's Player of the Year last year.

Hardaker said on the move: "I’m really excited to be joining York for the ‘27 and ‘28 season.

"It’s all come to fruition quickly, but after speaking to Mash [Mark Applegarth, York Knights head coach] and hearing the aspirations of York and where they’re wanting to go, and the experience I can bring to the club and the squad, made me very excited to join.

"I’m really looking forward to joining up with the team after the off season and seeing what we can achieve together over the next few years.

"Up the Knights."

His versatile skill set allows him to play at centre, full-back, or in the halves.

He even featured in the pack for Hull FC during their injury-hit campaign last season.

Hardaker began his professional career in 2010 with Featherstone Rovers.

He has gone on to represent Leeds Rhinos, Castleford Tigers, Wigan Warriors, and Leigh Leopards.

During his time with Leeds, he won three Grand Finals, two Challenge Cups, and a World Club Challenge.

He also spent a spell on loan at Penrith in the NRL.

In 2015, he was named Super League’s Man of Steel and has been selected for the Dream Team on three occasions.

Knights boss Applegarth said: "I’m delighted to have Zak over the line.

"He brings with him a wealth of experience.

"He’s the ultimate competitor.

"The best compliment I can give Zak is that every game I’ve watched him or previewed against him, he’s the most competitive player on the field and that’s what we want at York.

"He’s a player that’s been there and done it all in a long and illustrious career.

"We want those sort of values to reflect into bringing on our York team.

"We think he’s going to be great for a few of our younger end.

"He leads by example and I’m really looking forward to seeing him in a York Knights shirt."