Friday 15 August 2014 16:25, UK
Hull FC have signed back-row forward Mark Minichiello on a two-year deal from National Rugby League side Gold Coast Titans.
The 32-year-old Australian, who played for Italy in the 2013 World Cup, is the Black and Whites’ third major signing for 2015, along with half-backs Marc Sneyd and Leon Pryce.
Hull coach Lee Radford said: "Mark brings vast experience to the club, not just in terms of his ability and game sense on the field, but a wealth of knowledge and the right way to conduct yourself off it.
"It's been a long time coming. We've been talking to Mark and his management about coming to Hull for some time and it is difficult at the moment to bring in players of his calibre from the NRL. You only have to look at who we were in competition with to see why.
"But he has made all the right noises about the club, the opportunity to play Super League and seems extremely committed to making the move which has been pleasing.
"It's a new chapter for him and I know he is full of enthusiasm and can't wait to get started. He will be a big influence on some of our younger blokes and a real hit with the fans, I'm sure."
It's been a long time coming. We've been talking to Mark and his management about coming to Hull for some time and it is difficult at the moment to bring in players of his calibre from the NRL.
The player, who is the brother of Sydney Roosters full-back Anthony Minichiello, has made more than 250 appearances during his 13 seasons in NRL with the Roosters, South Sydney and the Titans.
"It is going to be a new challenge for me and I am really looking forward to it,” he said. “I can't wait to get over there and experience a different league.
"It was a big decision. I have been in the NRL for 13 seasons now and have played over 250 games here but I think it was maybe just the right time for me to make the change and I guess accept a new challenge.
"I have always had dreams of playing in the Super League, and when this deal and opportunity came about, I just thought it was the right time to jump in and experience something new."
