Barry Eaton believes new Hunslet signing Ayden Faal could be a “key signing” for his side as they prepare for life in Kingstone Press League One.
The 28-year-old centre signed today on a one-year deal following spells at Dewsbury and Batley since originally departing from Hunslet in 2009.
Injuries and a betting suspension have limited Faal’s playing time over the last two years, but Eaton is keen to see his new man in action.
“He could potentially be up there as the key signing,” Eaton told TotalRL.com
“His qualities are undoubted; he’s a quality ball-playing, strike-running centre. We’re going to have to score some tries and make some breaks next season and he certainly ticks those boxes.
“What’s really pleasing is that Ayden has been at the club before and first started making a name for himself as a top Championship player when he was at Hunslet before. His time at Batley has been hampered by injuries, but he’s a very good Championship player and to be able to secure a player of his standing is certainly a sign of our intentions but also where the club is at and the players we can attract to play for the club.”
Faal missed the back end of last season due to a shoulder reconstruction, however Eaton is confident that it won’t hinder Faal on his return.
“We’ve made some checks with the relevant people and he’s just about ready to go now,” Said Eaton.
“He knows what is needed from him and we don’t envisage that to cause any problems. I’ve met him this afternoon and had a chat with him about his role at the club and how we’re going to utilise his streghts. He’s pretty fit athletically, he’ll have to do some more rehab and weights in that area but nothing that’s complicated.”
