Featherstone Rovers sign Jack Broadbent from Leeds Rhinos until end of 2022 season

Broadbent, 21, previously had a loan spell with Rovers in 2019 and can play second row, stand-off, full-back, wing and centre, providing multiple options for Brian McDermott ahead of this weekend’s game with Broadbent’s hometown club Batley Bulldogs.

Broadbent has also previously enjoyed a loan spell with the Bulldogs and his move has come as a surprise as he has been widely linked with a transfer to Featherstone's neighbours, Castleford Tigers.

Rovers chief executive Martin Vickers said: "We're pleased to be adding a player of Jack's ability to the squad. Jack has a very bright future ahead of him, we've seen that clearly from his performances in a Leeds shirt as well as in an England Knights shirt last year."

Broadbent will join up with Brian McDermott's squad this evening for his first training session.

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On his departure from Leeds, the Rhinos head coach Rohan Smith said, “We would like to wish Jack all the best at Featherstone. He is a young player who needs game time against quality opposition and this is a good opportunity."

The Rhinos have recently welcomed back centre Harry Newman and full-back Jack Walker from long term injuries and have recruited Zak Hardaker, who can play centre and full-back for the remainder of the 2022 season which has limited opportunities for Broadbent.