Chris Clarkson hails impact of new York assistant

York forward Chris Clarkson has hailed the impact of new assistant coach Brett Delaney on the club so far.

Delaney was appointed to the backroom staff at the Knights ahead of the 2022 season. He announced his retirement from the game in 2019, and has also had roles with Leeds’ academy and reserve sides.

Clarkson and Delaney were teammates at Leeds, until Clarkson joined Hull KR ahead of the 2016 season.

Speaking to the club’s YouTube channel, Clarkson said of Delaney: “He’s a great signing for us as assistant coach. He’s mad- he’s not got an off switch I don’t think.

“Coming from a successful club, and having the great career he has had, he would be forgiven for trying to find his feet.

“But he has come straight and driven that intensity, and driving those winning standards that we need.”

York injury-free heading into pre-season

Knights Head Coach James Ford has also confirmed there have been no new injuries, as the players have returned to pre-season.

2021 was an injury-hit campaign for the Knights. They often struggled to cover key positions with injuries, and ended up finishing ninth in the Championship table, when they were expected to challenge for the playoffs.

However, Ford said there have been no fresh blows, and even the players who were out long-term, are approaching their returns.

He added: “We’ve picked up no additional injuries. It was one of the things we spoke about at the end of the season, and coming into this one. I’m really pleased with that.

“The lads who are coming off surgery are progressing really well. A number will start training with the team, and doing bits and bobs with us, and go with the S&C (Strength and Conditioning) department for the rest of the session.

“In terms of the injury front, we are in a good spot, and hopefully it stays that way.”

Read More: York announce 2022 squad numbers: Pauli Pauli to wear 12