Callum McLelland explains reasons for Castleford return

Now, aged 22 and after four seasons at Headingley, McLelland has re-joined his hometown club on a two-year contract, with an option for a further two years.

He said: “I’m ecstatic. This is something that I’ve been speaking about for quite a long time – how I’d always like to come back – and it’s happened sooner than I would have thought but I’m glad for it.

“I played two minutes down the road at Lock Lane, always had a season ticket from being the age of about eight, stood in the Wheldon Road end singing all the songs.

“I always dreamed of playing for Cas and last time I was here I, unfortunately, didn’t end up playing a Super League game but now I’m hoping to kick on and play her for the next couple of years.”

Castleford coach delighted with Callum McLelland signing

McLelland joins his Leeds team-mate Alex Sutcliffe at the Mend-A-Hose Jungle and is one of seven fresh faces for new coach Lee Radford.

Radford said: “I’m delighted to welcome Callum back to the Tigers. He’s a young, energetic half-back who sadly this year has suffered a couple of injury setbacks.

“Alongside Danny Richardson, Gareth O’Brien, and Jake Trueman, he adds further competition to our halves.

“At just 22 as well I’m thrilled to get a signing of his quality over the line and he is a signing we have made with the future also in mind. I’m looking forward to coaching Callum.”