Hull FC have confirmed the signing of enigmatic halfback Albert Kelly from cross city rivals Hull Kingson Rovers on a one-year deal.
Kelly, 25, was controversially suspended by Rovers during their Qualifiers campaign, with the former Gold Coast playmaker missing for the club’s final games of the season, in which they were ultimately relegated to the Championship.
The Australian’s career has been riddled with off-field problems, however, his ability has rarely been questioned, with Kelly single-handedly winning games during his spell with Rovers.
“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.”
Hull FC head coach Lee Radford added: “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.”
