York Knights bring in Hull KR outside-back on season-long loan

Championship side York Knights have signed outside-back Connor Barley from Hull KR on a season-long loan for 2023.

Barley, 18, has made three senior appearances for Hull KR in Super League.

He made a try-scoring debut against St Helens last August. Barley also featured in wins over Wigan and Hull last season. He received shirt number 32 for the 2023 campaign at Craven Park under head coach Willie Peters.

The centre or winger arrives at York to help cover injuries, with centre Levi Edwards currently sidelined.

York Knights boss on new addition

Head coach Andrew Henderson said: “Connor is a tall, athletic and a powerful athlete.

“He’s still in the development phase, but he’s got the ability to beat a man on the inside and outside as well as put his winger away. He’s got some really good attributes with the ball.

“Defensively, he competes, works hard and his work ethic is good.

“He’s got the attributes to be a Super League player of the future, there’s no doubt about that.

“He’s already earned a handful of Super League appearances for Hull KR last season, so he’s certainly a promising prospect.

“Speaking to Connor, he really impressed me and for a young man, he seems to have an old man on his shoulders.

“He’s very focused on being the best he can as a rugby league player and becoming a Super League player for the future. I think we’ve got a player of immense potential.

“Also, he’ll add value to us as we’ve only got two recognised centres as the Club.

“That adds more strength in depth and competition for places to us, given the injury to Levi Edwards at the moment.”

Barley added: “I’m thrilled to be here at York on loan for this season. I feel like I belong playing against men rather than kids my own age.

“I spoke to Hendo about where he wants to take the club over the next few years and I’m looking forward to being part of that this season.”

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