Eagles sign Davies from Batley

Sheffield Eagles have confirmed that John Davies has signed for them from Batley Bulldogs.

The backrower, 23, has signed a one-year deal, and is relishing the chance to impress in the Steel City in what will be a vital season next year.

He also believes that his handling ability and versatility will be a real asset to Mark Aston’s team.

“I’m delighted to join the Eagles. It will be a new start for me having been at Batley for the last two years and I’m really looking forward to working with a new bunch of people,” said the player.

“Sheffield have had great success in recent years and could potentially go on to repeat that again this year after knocking us (Batley) out of the playoffs at the weekend.

“Mark (Aston) has spent a lot of time speaking to me and I was really impressed with what he had to say and what the club wants to achieve in the not too distant future.

“I’m still only 23 and I feel that there is a lot that I can still achieve. Mark is really passionate about coaching and improving the players that he has got; I feel that he can take me on to the next level.

“I see myself as an edge back-rower who can play a bit and is sometimes a bit off the cuff.

“I think I’m quite good at playing what is in front of me, and I think that is one of the reasons Mark was keen to sign me. I want to provide some grit and directness through the middle as well.

“The way the game is going now, the top teams have several players who can pass the ball; the more players we have on the park that can do a bit with the ball the more options we will have.

“Sheffield play exciting rugby league so it is something that I am really looking forward to getting involved with.”

Sheffield Eagles Head Coach Mark Aston added: “I am looking forward to working with John, he will be a major asset to our forward strength given his skilful and robust style.

“He has both Championship and Super League experience and is still wanting to learn and develop his game and career further.”