Tim Sheens: Todd Carney can add a lot to Hull KR

Hull KR coach Tim Sheens thinks Todd Carney can hit the ground running once he arrives in the UK.

Last week, the 32-year-old half-back joined Rovers on a deal until the end of the season, subject to receiving the necessary clearance and paperwork.

Carney made over 150 appearances in the NRL with Canberra Raiders, Sydney Roosters and Cronulla Sharks. He is also a former Australia and New South Wales representative.

Sheens thinks he has the ability to make a big impact on the team.

He said: “I gave Todd his test debut with Australia in 2010 and everybody knows he’s a talented half back.

“It’s an area where we’ve been short all year and we’ve had to use all sorts of people there, which we don’t want to have to continue with.

“Todd’s arrival gives us some extra strength in depth and an insurance policy in the pivotal positions, particularly with Chris Atkin’s ability to also play at either hooker or full back. The combination of players we now have across the spine of the team gives us cover in key positions because we can’t afford to be weakened in those areas in any of the crucial games we have coming up.

“There’s still at least 11 rounds left so there’s a lot of footy to be played and we want to be sure that if we do have an issue with our pivots that we have some depth and experience in there.

“Todd’s played in this competition before [with Catalans Dragons and Salford Red Devils], he’s used to these systems and he’s used to the stadiums and the supporters, so hopefully he can hit the ground running once he arrives.

“He’s got a great kicking game, nice running skills and he’s a very clever player. He plays mainly as a second receiver but like Danny (McGuire) and Chris he likes the ball in his hands. He’s a stand-off by what we call it over here and he finds a way to win matches. He’s just a class player that can come up with a big play at a crucial time.”

Carney spent three seasons in Super League between 2015 and 2017, playing 33 games for Catalans Dragons and 17 for Salford Red Devils.