IRISH prop Ronan Michael says he has “unfinished business” after returning to York Knights on a one-year deal.
The 26-year-old fan favourite is back for a second spell at the Minster city club two years on from his departure to rivals Bradford Bulls.
Michael, who initially joined the Knights on loan from Huddersfield Giants before going on to make the move permanent, made 71 appearances for the club between 2022 and 2024, establishing himself as a popular, hard-hitting forward.
He went on to feature 30 times for Bradford and three times on loan to Keighley Cougars before being released from Odsal, then spending the rest of last season in Australia at Hostplus Cup side Northern Pride.
“I’m buzzing to be back,” enthused the Balbriggan-born front-rower, who featured for Ireland at the 2021 World Cup.
“York is where I found my feet as a player, so coming back feels like unfinished business.
“I’ve had some great experiences since I left, and I’m coming back a better player for it.
“Mash [coach Mark Applegarth] knows exactly what I bring, and I’m grateful he’s given me the opportunity to do it again under him.
“The club is on the up, and I want to be a part of something special this season.”
Applegarth, who has also recruited fellow forwards Brad Fash, Cameron McInness and Blake Lawrie to his side, is delighted to bring Michael back to the club.
“I’m delighted we’ve got Ronan back,” he said. “We didn’t want him to leave the first time we had him.
“He’s a player with lots of potential and I’m looking forward to working with him again.”
