Wakefield forward Brad Walker makes Championship switch

Newly-promoted Championship side Keighley have signed utility forward Brad Walker on a two-year deal from Wakefield.

The 24-year-old Cumbrian made 25 appearances for Wakefield over three seasons following his move from Widnes.

Former England Academy international Walker came through the ranks at Widnes, for whom he made 40 first team appearances.

Walker said: “For me it is about starting to enjoy my rugby again.

“When I spoke with Rhys (Lovegrove, coach) and Hendo (Andrew Henderson, head of rugby) about their plans for me and the club over the next few years, I was attracted straight away.

“I’ve heard nothing but good things about Keighley for the players there now and people that have been there at the club before.

“I’m here to challenge at the top end of the Championship and help with the clubs aspirations to get into the Super League.

“I can’t wait to get started and meet everyone.”

Cougars boss delighted to secure services of Brad Walker

Keighley head of rugby Andrew Henderson said: “We are very happy to have secured Brad’s services.

“He is a skilful and talented player with Super League pedigree and brings genuine quality in the loose forward position.

“Knowing how Rhys wants to play, I identified Brad as a direct replacement for Scott Murrell as I believe he fits that mould of a ball playing loose forward with skill.

“Unfortunately for Brad in recent years at Wakefield he has been used more as a utility player covering a number of positions which is great and beneficial to us that he can play several positions.

“But we have brought him here to play and develop further in that loose forward role.

“I am looking forward to watching Brad develop further under Rhys and our coaching team. I feel has the potential to progress further as a player here in the future.

“We welcome Brad and his partner to the club and look forward to what he will bring to the team.”

Keighley will play in the Championship next season after winning every game in League 1 in 2022.

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