Friday 29 August 2014 09:40, UK
Castleford have confirmed that hooker Daryl Clark will join Warrington at the end of the season.
The 21-year-old, who scored the Tigers’ first try in Saturday’s 23-10 Challenge Cup final loss to Leeds at Wembley, has agreed a four-year deal with the Wolves.
I have to say that Daryl has been an absolute pleasure to work with and it has been great to see him mature as a player and person this season.
Castleford also revealed that the deal for the player, who submitted a transfer request two years ago, was actually completed last year at the height of their financial troubles.
Chief executive Steve Gill said "It is with a heavy heart that Castleford Tigers can confirm the sale of Daryl Clark to Warrington Wolves at the end of this season.
"The sale was agreed back in 2013 when the club had a real threat of going into administration and this decision was made to ensure we had financial stability at the club.
"We negotiated Daryl's services for this season as part of that sale and he has been an integral part of our success this season.
"The club would like to place on record our thanks to Daryl for his professional attitude and commitment this year and we wish him all the best for the future."
Clark, who came through Castleford's scholarship and academy system before making his first-team debut in 2010, said: "I've really enjoyed my time here at Castleford Tigers.
"This is my home-town club and I will always be a Cas fan. My proudest moment has been helping this team reach the Challenge Cup final and I'll continue to give my all to help Castleford Tigers reach the Super League Grand Final."
Castleford coach Daryl Powell said: "When I took on the head coach job last season the deal had already been done for Daryl to move to Warrington which secured the future of the club at that time.
"Whilst we obviously don't want to lose our best players, this deal was in the best interests of the club.
"I have to say that Daryl has been an absolute pleasure to work with and it has been great to see him mature as a player and person this season.
"I know he will be working exceptionally hard to finish his time at the club with a Grand Final appearance."
Clark, who was called up to the England squad earlier this year, will replace the retiring Michael Monaghan at Warrington.
