Storm Sign Aitken from Sharks

Correspondent

Melbourne Storm has made their second major signing for the 2007 NRL season with former Australian Schoolboys representative Russell Aitken joining the club.

Aitken, 21, has been signed from Cronulla's reserve grade team and is expected to fill the shoes of departing five-eighth Scott Hill.

Signed on a two-year deal, Storm recruitment manager Peter O'Sullivan believes Aitken has all of the necessary attributes to be the Storm's next number six.

"Russell Is a former elite junior player who was the best player in his age division as he came through the grades," said O'Sullivan.

"He is a tall, athletic, skilful player in the mould of Scott Hill who, if plays to his potential, will be a major asset to the Storm in 2007."

Although Aitken struggled to make an impact at the Sharks, and only played several trial games for the Cowboys at the beginning of this year before returning to Sydney mid-season, O'Sullivan believes he is the type of player that could make a big impact with a fresh start.

"For a myriad of reasons Russell hasn't performed to his full potential," said O'Sullivan.

"However, having watched him play in the NSW Premier League for the last few months, we know he is ready to reach his potential and will be given first opportunity to grab our five-eighth spot."