Rochdale sign USA star Taylor Welch

Rochdale have signed USA international Taylor Welch until the end of the season.

The 28-year-old is a versatile back who can play at centre, wing or full-back. He has recently returned from Australia after playing for Intrust Super Cup side Mendi Blackhawks in Townsville for a couple of seasons.

USA-born Welch relocated from his hometown of Dallas, Texas, to Warrington as a youngster and he came through the Wolves academy under then coach Paul Cullen. He made one appearance for Warrington’s first team in 2008.

Hornets head coach Alan Kilshaw is delighted to capture Welch, who starred for USA in the 2013 Rugby League World Cup.

He said: “I am delighted we have been able to add a player of Taylor’s quality to the squad at this stage of the year.

“We have been actively looking to strengthen and after initial conversations with him we moved quickly to get him over from Australia.

“He can cover all the outside back positions and is a good athlete. He has the experience of a World Cup and Queensland Cup under his belt, along with a handful of Super League appearances.

“We are looking forward to what he will bring on and off the field.”

Welsh will take the number four shirt at the Hornets.