Steen in for Thunder

Gateshead have signed former Doncaster back-rower Ryan Steen.

Steen, 22, came through the academy system at Hull FC, and was part of their 2007 Academy Grand Final winning squad.

He has been on trial at Thunder, and has now agreed terms with the Championship 1 club.

Head Coach Kevin Neighbour told the club’s official website: “Ryan is just the type of player we are looking for to complement our squad.

“He had played for Doncaster for a number of years in both The Championship and Championship 1 competitions and is a solid performer with a lot of experience.”

“He has played against Thunder many times over the past couple of seasons and people will know him for his solid defence and ability to maintain high standards of performance for the full 80 minutes.”

Steen goes straight into contention for Thunder’s Championship 1 opener against South Wales Scorpions on Sunday.