Ex-Leeds Rhinos assistant makes first signing as Featherstone Rovers boss with ex-Wigan Warriors centre

Sean Long has made his first signing since taking over at Featherstone from Brian McDermott.

The French assistant coach replaced McDermott after he resigned following a failure to get Fev promoted with the Rovers losing the play-off semi-final against underdogs Batley.

Long is determined to right those wrongs and has brought in some real quality in the shape of former Wigan centre Chris Hankinson.

The accomplished centre has had spells to London and Toulouse and can also play in the halves or at fullback.

Speaking of his first signing since taking the reigns, Head Coach Sean Long said on the club’s website: “I’m really pleased to welcome Chris to the club, I’m confident that he has the attributes needed to strengthen our drive for Super League promotion in 2023. I’m very grateful to Mark and the club for the backing they’re giving me in the transfer market, I’m excited to see the fans reaction to Chris’s arrival and perhaps a couple more in the coming days.”

Hankinson commented: “I’m very pleased to be joining Featherstone, a club moving in the right direction. I’m grateful to Sean and the club for the opportunity and look forward to meeting the boys and contributing towards that promotion push next year.”