Crusaders snap up Shannan McPherson

Crusaders have today announced the signing of Australian utility forward Shannan McPherson on a two-year-deal.

The 25-year-old will join Crusaders from South Sydney Rabbitohs, having played over 80 first grade games for the NRL outfit.

McPherson is comfortable playing in the back-row or at prop and is set to join up with his Crusaders team mates in time for the 2012 season.

Shannan commented “I am excited about joining Crusaders in 2012. I’m most fortunate that Souths were kind enough to allow me to take up this opportunity as playing overseas is something I have always wanted to do

“Crusaders are a club on the way up. I made plenty of my own inquiries into their structure and set-up and everything was really positive

“It’s a new challenge and a new adventure for my family and I and we look forward to being part of club next year.”

Crusaders head coach Iestyn Harris added: “Shannan is an exceptional player and I’m really pleased to have him on board. We’ve been really busy with out recruitment for next season and Shannan ticks a lot of our boxes

“He’s strong, athletic, hard-working and he has a great attitude. Shannan has shown a real desire to come over here and prove himself.

“Shannan is still young but he’s firmly established himself in the NRL and now he wants to take up a new challenge here with us at the Crusaders.

“His energy and work rate are going to be really valuable assets for us and I’m looking forward to working with him next season.”