Youngster re-signs for Leeds and is loaned out to York

Hooker Corey Johnson, who retired from rugby league last year, has re-signed for Leeds and been loaned out to Championship side York alongside team-mate Corey Hall.

Johnson, 20, made his Super League debut in Leeds’ final match of 2019 and was midway through a four-year deal when he decided to retire and focus on a career outside of the game.

England Academy centre Hall, 18, made his Leeds debut against Catalans last year and adds competition to the outside backs for York.

Knights head coach James Ford said: “Corey is a very talented hooker with good deception, running game and support play.

“I enjoyed working with CJ at England and I’m confident he will have a positive impact on our performances. I’d like to thank everyone involved in helping this deal come through.

“Corey (Hall) is a talented three quarter who has the potential to make a significant impact on our performances.

“Corey is another player who represented England academy and I’m excited to work with him again. Once again, I’d like to thank Leeds and everyone involved in this deal.”

Johnson already has some experience in the Championship, playing a handful of games on loan at Featherstone in 2019.

He was included in Richard Agar’s squad for 2020, but barely a month in to the season decided to retire.

At the time, Rhinos Director of Rugby Kevin Sinfield, said: “We have been speaking with Corey for a number of weeks about what he would like to do in the future.

“Our first concern is always the welfare of our players, especially the younger members of the squad.

“We will remain in contact with Corey and provide him with any support he needs.”

Leeds also stated that the door would remain open for him if he decided to return.

Johnson has recently been playing in the community game for Hunslet Club Parkside, scoring a try in their 26-4 win over Oulton Raiders.