Tuesday 19 August 2014 07:37, UK
Kieran Dixon will remain in Super League despite London Broncos' impending relegation from the top flight, after he agreed a deal to join Hull KR from next season.
The winger - who finished 2013 as the Broncos' leading try-scorer but has been sidelined for much of the current campaign - will head north to Rovers after signing a three-year deal.
I spoke to some boys that have played here and they say the city splits in two on derby day. I can’t wait to be a part of it and show everyone what I can do for the red and white half of the city.
Dixon is looking forward to a "new challenge" in his career after becoming the fifth recruit by the Robins, following on from the additions of James Donaldson and Darrell Goulding from Wigan and Bradford respectively, as well as overseas duo Ken Sio and Josh Mantellato.
"It's a good time to be coming to the club. With the players already signed and a few more additions, hopefully we'll have a squad capable of challenging towards the top end of the table," he told the club's website.
"I wanted a new challenge and when I had the opportunity to come here I was very honoured.
"I'll be moving my family from one side of the country to the other so it is going to be a big change for us but one we are excited about.
"There's a big history at the club and the derby was something that appealed to me too. I've been in London my whole life and there isn't anything like the rivalry in Hull down there.
"I spoke to some boys that have played here and they say the city splits in two on derby day. I can't wait to be a part of it and show everyone what I can do for the red and white half of the city."
Dixon's displays last year for London saw him rewarded with a call-up to the England Knights squad, though while on international duty he suffered a serious knee injury.
However the Hackney-born player made his comeback in round 24 of Super League against Leeds Rhinos, scoring a try to help the Broncos finally register their first win of the season.
Hull KR head coach Chris Chester said: "We're delighted that Kieran has chosen to come to Hull KR from next season.
"He was on the verge of a full England call-up 12 months ago and he’s had plenty of interest from other clubs so it's great that we’ve been able to sign a player of his calibre.
"We've identified a lack of speed in the outside backs and Kieran certainly brings pace in abundance. He's a great finisher and he scored another good try at the weekend so we're looking forward to what he can bring to the side."
