Alex Mellor makes immediate move to Castleford Tigers
Castleford Tigers have confirmed the signing of Alex Mellor from Leeds on a two-and-a-half-year deal.
The back-rower makes the move from Headingley to Wheldon Road immediately. He could make his Tigers debut this Sunday at home against Catalans Dragons.
Mellor, 27, has been handed the #37 shirt for the remainder of the current season.
Injuries have limited Mellor to just six appearances so far this season. He has made a total of 115 Super League appearances.
He said: “It feels good. It’s been a bit of a long process getting things sorted, so to finally have it all figured out is a good feeling.
“Back-row suits my play style. I think I’m a bloke who is going to put his head down and work hard for you, come up with some plays when I need to but put the team first and do every little thing I can to make the team better.”
“Lee Radford is a big reason. I sat down with him the first time and felt comfortable around him and liked what he had to say, his persona, how he viewed things in rugby.
“Personally, I could really see myself playing under him and coming to Castleford to see what we can do.”
Signing news: Newcastle Thunder sign Oliver Roberts following Huddersfield release
Castleford boss on Alex Mellor addition
Head coach Radford said: “Alex is a really athletic, strike ball player on an edge. I’ve watched him over the years and been impressed with him. He’s probably not struck the chords that he wanted to so far this year. I think we’re picking up someone who we can try to get back into the swing of things and enjoying his rugby again
“He has been on the cusp of the England Knights selection. He’s of the age where his best years are still in front of him.
“I think he will be a good coup for us. I got a really good feeling for him and everyone I’ve spoken to, player and coach, has only had good things to say about him in how he trains and approaches training.
“Competition is what we need, and he will be playing on an edge, this time of year to pick someone up of his quality is fantastic, as is having him long-term too. Hopefully, this place will be good for him as he will be good for us.”
READ MORE: Leeds boss confirms Jack Broadbent will depart club permanently at end of season