Anthony Walker lands permanent Bradford deal after successful trial

Drew Darbyshire

Wales international Anthony Walker has signed a permanent deal with Bradford following a successful trial period.

The 29-year-old prop returns to the sport following a four-year lay-off, having been told to retire due to an underlying brain abnormality diagnosed in 2017.

Walker will play under Wales coach John Kear at Bradford, who he will be also hoping to link up with at the World Cup this autumn.

Walker said: “I am buzzing to have signed – it has been a long time coming these last 12 months since I got the all clear but now to have the deal and the security I wanted is great.

“The game feels a lot faster and it took me a while to adjust but I felt more comfortable last week, it is just getting used to the new rules defensively.

“I have always been in and around the boys but now I have signed and can officially play I feel like I am part of the squad.”

Kear said: “I am delighted and really pleased for him – it is great for Bradford as he will add to our middle channel but it is also very good for the individual.

“Ant has had four years out and come back like he has and we are really happy with him and are more than happy to offer him a deal.

“He will be very important for us this year – he has signed until the end of the year because he wants to show us how good he is, he backed himself to get back now he is backing himself to show his true worth and I am sure he will do that as well.”

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Championship Anthony Walker