Sheffield snap up ex-Hull winger

Sheffield Eagles have signed former Hull FC winger Mike Adlard on a one-year deal for 2021.

Adlard never made a senior appearance for the Black and Whites but was a standout in their academy system, winning the club’s Reserves Player of the Year award in 2016.

He left the 13-man game the year after and has since been plying his trade for Hull Rugby Union, but will return to league with Eagles next season, where he will link up with former Hull centre partner Connor Bower.

“I am happy to be coming back to a good standard of rugby league with the Eagles,” Adlard said. “I have spoken to some of the lads and they seem like a great bunch. I am excited to get into the season with them all.

“I got in touch with a few clubs during lockdown, as I wanted to increase my performance. Sheffield got involved and after speaking with the coaching and S+C (strength and conditioning) staff, I knew they were the club for me.

“It’s always good to have that competition. Even when you think you’re at the top, you have got to keep fighting for your position on the field. You’re never sitting back in training as you know you’re not the only person going for that spot.”

Eagles head coach Mark Aston added: “Mike has been out of the sport for a couple of years. He was full-time with Hull before playing at a decent level of rugby union.

“He is another good kid with massive amounts of potential. While being rather big and strong, he has great feet and can play at full-back too.

“He can certainly beat defenders, which is a skill in its own, and it’s great that we can bring another exciting player into the club at this stage. However, he does know that it will take him a while to establish himself.

“He knows the players we have got at the club, with Ryan Millar – arguably one of the best wingers in the competition – and Rob Worrincy who has massive amounts of experience. He needs to learn from those people.”