Alex Gerrard returns to the UK with Leigh

Leigh have signed former Widnes forward Alex Gerrard from Mackay Cutters.

Gerrard, 28, left for Australia following Widnes’ relegation from Super League at the end of 2018, having come through the club’s academy and made more than 110 appearances.

Centurions coach John Duffy said: “I actually know Alex from when I played at Widnes when he was coming through the Academy as a young lad. He has played so many games in Super League but decided to move to Australia and played in the Queensland Cup.

“He was offered the chance to trial in pre-season with the Gold Coast Titans. But he’s missing home and wants to come back.

“Alex actually trained with us last pre-season and got some fitness before heading for Australia. He’s a Lowton lad and he’ll enjoy getting out there in a Leigh shirt being local.

“He’s a steady head, a strong lad and has got some skill too. I think he’ll give us a lot of composure in the middle.”