Warrington move for Featherstone forward

Warrington have signed prop Anthony England from Championship side Featherstone on a two-year deal.

England, 26, made 27 appearances for Rovers last season before suffering a shoulder injury and has been linked with the Wolves for several months.

Wolves coach Tony Smith said: “He’s a player signed from the Championship; one who we have monitored and admired from a distance. He was pointed out to us and we are really pleased to give Anthony an opportunity. 

“He’s ready for it and he’s desperate to make it in Super League. He’s certainly a big human being who is ready to make a big impact on the competition and he’s done his best to get himself in a position where he can. 

“If he can follow along the lines of a Chris Hill, who also came from the Championship, then we’d love for him to be another success story.”

England came through the ranks at Castleford, and has also played for Gateshead and Dewsbury.

He said: “I went to a meeting with Tony and it was what he said and where he thinks I can go that helped with my decision. I’m looking forward to playing for a top-class side with top-class fans.

“It’s good to see Championship lads getting a chance to make the step up; they deserve it. There is nothing better than getting up for training and not a nine-to-five job.”