Hull win race for Paul Johnson

Hull have signed Wakefield prop Paul Johnson on a two-year deal.

Johnson, 24, becomes the Airlie Birds’ eighth new signing for 2013, and Hull fought off competition from other Super League clubs, including the Wildcats, to secure the services of the former St Helens youngster.

He said: “Hull FC is one of the biggest clubs in the game and I’m really excited above the move. Hull have had a good year despite a lot of injuries and they’ve added some quality players to the ones already at the club for next season.

“The likes of Gareth Ellis and Daniel Holdsworth are top players, so it’s a good time to be joining the club and hopefully we can push on to big things.

“Whenever you play rugby, you want to win and be the best you can and I’m sure I can do that at Hull FC. With the squad that Peter (Gentle) is putting together, hopefully we’ll be pushing for silverware in the next few years.”

Johnson is one game away from 50 senior appearances, having made his Super League debut for hometown club St Helens against Huddersfield in 2010.

He made just two appearances for Saints before making the move to Wakefield ahead of the 2011 season, and was a virtual ever present last season.

Hull Head Coach Peter Gentle said: “We’re really pleased to have secured a deal for Paul, a player who has impressed throughout this season with his no-nonsense, committed approach to the game.

“He can play big minutes if required and his performances over the last couple of seasons at Wakefield will show everyone his pedigree and exactly why we wanted to bring him to the KC Stadium.”