LIAM WATTS has reunited with his old Hull FC front-row partner Scott Taylor at Goole Vikings.
The 35-year-old joins the club on the eve of the new Championship season, following his release by Hull in September.
With almost 400 career appearances under his belt, head coach Taylor believes Watts’ experience will be crucial in Goole’s second professional campaign.
“Liam is a huge addition for us and a real boost to the squad ahead of the new season,” said Taylor.
“We’ve been patient with our recruitment and we identified the need to add experience and a pack leader who can bring leadership and raise those around him.
“Liam fits that profile perfectly, having played Super League just a few months ago.”
Watts appeared eight times for Hull last year after returning to the club following more than six years at Castleford Tigers.
He spent more than a decade in the city of Hull, first at Hull KR and then over a first FC spell between 2012 and 2018, during which he won two Challenge Cups alongside Taylor.
Taylor, a year Watts’ junior, is sure there’s life left in the old dog, adding: “He’s in great condition, he can play big minutes and is very good with the ball in hand.
“His offload game can be dangerous, and with his size and frame he’ll have a real impact for us.
“He’s a different type of forward to what we already have and that will really complement our pack.
“We’re excited to have him onboard and to see him make his mark this season.”
Watts said: “I played with Scott and I know how committed he is as a person and a player, so to be playing under him will be a great opportunity.
“It’ll be interesting to see how far he’s come from playing into coaching, something I’d like to do myself down the track once I retire.
“The club has done so well over the last year from a standing start, so it’s an exciting challenge in the Championship to help them continue to grow and see where we can take them – and hopefully get some wins on the board in 2026.”