Hull FC sign Albert kelly from Hull KR

Kelly signs one-year deal with the Challenge Cup winners

25-year-old previously played in the NRL

Hull FC’s charge for more silverware in 2017 has been boosted by the signing of energetic half-back Albert Kelly on a one-year deal.

The former Gold Coast Titan will make a high-profile move across the city of Hull from arch-rivals Hull Kingston Rovers, following their relegation to the Kingstone Press Championship.

The 25-year-old playmaker has been one of the shining lights in a difficult couple of seasons for the Robins, including a number of stand-out derby displays against the Airlie Birds since arriving from the NRL.

In 2015 he was named Hull KR’s Player of the Year as well as finishing the season as their top try scorer.

Speaking to ‘Hull FC Live’ about joining the Challenge Cup winners, Kelly says he can’t wait line up alongside his new team mates.

“It’s very exciting and they’ve got some star players in there: Danny Houghton, Man of Steel, played tremendous all year round. There’s Sneydy, Jamie Shaul, there’s plenty of players across the field that I will look forward to playing alongside,” he said.

“I think I might bring a bit more sting in attack and I think that’s a bit of excitement for the fans as well.

“It was pretty exciting seeing Hull go to Wembley and win the Challenge Cup. Some of my good mates were in there and to see them smiling and lifting the trophy is something I want to do as well.

“I think because the boys won it last year, we can go back-to-back if we put in performances each week. “

He continued, “I’m looking forward to getting stuck into training and have the boys show me the ropes and looking forward to wearing different colours.”

Kelly began his career in the NRL as a youngster with Parammatta Eels, when he also represented New South Wales U18s and was named vice-captain of the Australian Schoolboys.

His first-team break came shortly after with Cronulla Sharks where he spent two years, followed by a further two seasons with the Titans where he impressed scoring 16 tries in 33 games.

Since arriving in the UK, the exciting half-back has become one of the most feared pivots in the competition, scoring 22 tries in 43 appearances and earning no fewer than thirteen Man of the Match awards in the process.

A playmaker with speed and flair, Kelly made more tackles busts, clean breaks and attacking kicks than any other Hull KR player last season, as well as one being of their top five metre makers for two consecutive years.

Hull FC head coach Lee Radford knows the mercurial half-back has all the ingredients to be a significant addition to the Black and Whites ranks ahead of pre-season.

“I’m over the moon to secure a player of Albert’s quality,” he said.

“Recruitment is very much about timing and we feel the timing is right for both us as a club and Albert as an individual.

“As soon as we were notified that a player of his quality was available we decided to move and despite leaving Hull KR under clouded circumstances, it means he comes across the city in a very motivated mindset and with a firm focus on delivering his career best form.

“He is at a great age for a developing half back with his peak years in front of him and it is our job as a club and coaching staff to put everything in place for that to happen.”

Kelly will join his new team mates for pre-season training tomorrow morning.

Kelly is one of four new signings for 2017, including Josh Griffin, Jake Connor and youngster Nick Rawsthorne.

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