Mark Kheirallah: Featherstone the next destination for ex-Toulouse man

George Riley
Mark Kheirallah Toulouse Olympique

Photo: Manuel Blondeau / SWpix

Championship leaders Featherstone have completed the stunning signing of France international Mark Kheirallah.

The full-back signs after leaving Toulouse Olympique and says he cannot wait to play under legendary head coach Brian McDermott.

He won promotion to Super League with the French side in 2021, but was released without playing a game in 2022.

Featherstone already have one of the brightest full-back talents outside of Super League in Brandon Pickersgill, but believe that in Kheirallah they have signed one of the most exciting players in the game.

“When we knew a player of Mark’s ability was on the market, we have moved very quickly to secure his signature,” said Rovers CEO Martin Vickers.

“We believe Mark will bring another dimension to our already strong squad. We look forward to him joining up straight away with us.

“Yesterday’s game showed how close we are getting to the elite teams. We have to leave no stone unturned in reaching that level.”

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Mark Kheirallah expected in next three weeks

Kheirallah will join up with Brian McDermott’s side immediately as they pursue promotion to Super League for the first time. It is expected visa clearance will take two-to-three weeks.

And the 32-year-old believes the players already brought in at Featherstone show that the club means business in chasing their Super League dream.

“The players that have been brought into Featherstone already this season have really impressed me.

“The likes of Joey Leilua and Ryley Jacks have come straight from the NRL. Their experience will be invaluable.

“It’ll be interesting to play with them and learn from them; to pick their brains.

“It shows the club’s determination to push for Super League because they’re some really good investments.”

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