St Helens have secured the signing of the versatile Widnes back Jack Owens on a two-year deal.
The 21-year-old outside back has played 66 times since making his debut at just 16 for Widnes Vikings, scoring 30 tries and 122 goals.
Equally adept at full back or on the wing, he made his bow for England academy on his 17th birthday before playing in Super League the following season.
“Jack is an experienced Super League player who is young and will no doubt improve over the coming seasons,” Saints Head Coach Keiron Cunningham said. “He plays in a number of positions and will add depth to our squad for 2016.
“He has a good attitude and is keen to learn and develop.”
Owens was Widnes’ top point scorer in 2013 and last season scoring 166 and 114 points respectively.
Jack said: “I have played for Widnes since I was 12 and really enjoyed the experience and my time there. But it got to a point where my game time was limited so I asked Denis Betts and the coaching staff if I could go out and play somewhere else for the 2016 season.
“They agreed and the opportunity came up to play for St Helens. I felt it was the best option for me and I cannot wait to kick on and start the season.
“It’s a bit alien for me as I have always had the same coach and group of players around me. I’m excited to meet the players here and see how Keiron Cunningham and his coaching team do things.
“I know I have to earn the right to play, especially with talent the club has – and that means proving to the players and the coaches I deserve to play.
“If I do that, then I need to work hard and play well to hold on to that spot.
“Before then, my focus is on pre-season, getting fit and developing my skills.”
