Bulls sign hooker Rinaldi
Bradford Bulls sign former Catalans Dragons hooker Julien Rinaldi
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Friday, 17, Apr 2009 11:25
Bradford Bulls have signed former Catalans Dragons hooker Julien Rinaldi on a short-term contract with a view to a longer-term deal.
The 29-year-old, who captained France at the World Cup in Australia last year, has signed an agreement to play for the club until the end of June.
Rinaldi has been plying his trade down under since the end of last season after the RFL's rule changes regarding foreign players.
But he said he is "really looking forward to this chance" to prove his worth again in Europe's top rugby league competition.
"Bradford... are a good side and I wasn't ready to leave Super League last year," explained Rinaldi, who is due to arrive in England early next week.
"I felt I could stay on in the competition and so I'm really happy to be back.
"I've only signed for two months but want to give it another crack, help the Bulls get back up the table and hopefully prove I'm worth a longer contract."
Bull head coach Steve McNamara welcomed the signing of Rinaldi, particularly because of the versatility he gives the squad.
"In Julien Rinaldi we have a French international who is comfortable playing either at hooker or in the halves," he said.
"He is very quick, a good offensive player with a good kicking game as well so we are really happy we can get him on board.
"He obviously had difficulties last season with his nominated status, which prevented him getting a contract with a Super League club but we are delighted that we have been able to give him the opportunity now."