Hull sign Fijian outside-back Mitieli Vulikijapani following successful trial

Drew Darbyshire

Sunday's game will take place at the KCOM Stadium

Hull have signed Fijian outside-back Mitieli Vulikijapani on a one-year contract following a successful trial period with the club.

The British Army serviceman has been granted a release from active service to pursue to his opportunity with Hull.

Vulikijapani, who is comfortable at wing or centre, has impressed during pre-season with Brett Hodgson’s side.

Vulikijapani said: “Firstly I want to thank everyone at the club for being so welcoming, as well as my family for supporting me on my journey.

“The players have been extremely welcoming, especially the Pacific Island players – I can’t thank them enough.

“I’ve seen them play on television before, but meeting them in person, you realise how humble they are. They’ve taught me a lot already, particularly Carlos, Mahe and Bureta.”

Hull coach Brett Hodgson said: “Mitch has a lot of potential and we’re excited to continue to develop that.

“Coming from the other code, we have had to teach him some new systems and make sure that he showed the traits and characteristics we were looking for, and he has done that; he’s strong defensively and I’m confident that he’s going to play his part this season.

“He’s a very likeable character, always smiling, and always asking questions and willing to learn, and he has a strong work ethic too – he has moved away from his family which is a big commitment, but thankfully it has paid off.

Vulikijapani will wear the number 27 jersey for Hull this season.

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