Leigh snap up NRL back Brendan Elliot

Leigh have signed utility-back Brendan Elliot on a deal until the end of the season following his release from Gold Coast.

The 24-year-old made his NRL debut for Sydney Roosters in 2014 and later played for Newcastle Knights, before joining Gold Coast Titans ahead of this season.

Elliot, who can play centre, wing or full-back, has scored 19 tries in 39 NRL games.

Centurions owner Derek Beaumont revealed that head of rugby Keiron Cunningham is doing all he can to strengthen the squad ahead of the Super 8s split.

He said: “We have been actively seeking quality additions to strengthen the squad for some time without success, and Keiron has been working hard on his overseas contacts on a daily basis, which has finally paid dividends with the signing of Brendan, who comes highly recommended from our contacts at the Gold Coast.

“He is a good defender with lots of pace which will be a welcome addition to the team.

“It is a very difficult period at the club as it really is up in the air as to where we will finish but I have to make decisions on the basis that we will make the four to put us in a good place to mount a challenge to return to Super League, if we do as it will be too late once we know our fate.

“There will also be a further announcement of another overseas player this week which will complete our recruitment for the season, and I believe with everyone fit and free from suspensions, we will have the quality to be serious contenders in the Qualifiers should we make them.”