Widnes Vikings have signed hometown half-back Danny Richardson from York on a deal until the end of the season.
Richardson, 29, was part of the Vikings scholarship before coming through the academy at St Helens, where he made his Super League debut in 2017.
He was named in the Super League Dream Team in 2018 and went on to score 399 points in 59 appearances for Saints.
After spells at Castleford, Leigh and Hull KR, Richardson joined York at the start of this season and kicked the winning drop-goal in their win over Hull FC.
Richardson, who will be sponsored by West End Motors, said: “Returning home is something I have always wanted to do during my career and I finally get the chance to do that now. I can’t wait to get back home and get in front of the Widnes fans and rip in.
“The club and the town have got a lot of history when it comes to rugby league. I remember growing up and going watching the games and the whole town bouncing, I know what it means to play for the club, I know what the fans demand and what the town demands, and I can’t wait to go and do everybody proud.”
A full interview with Richardson will be available later this week. He goes straight in to contention for Sunday’s trip to Hunslet in the Championship.
Widnes Vikings head coach Allan Coleman said: “It was vital that we replaced Leon [Hayes], because I think having a half of Super League quality improved us and brought a real factor to the opposition.
“I identified Danny as a player not playing currently and did some enquiring. We had a conversation and it became known it could be a possibility and the board backed me to get it done.
“He’ll bring a real competitive edge to us and another level of quality. And we need a goal kicker! But we also need a general as well, because if we lost Tom [Gilmore] now it would be a travesty, with Joey [Lyons] being out also.
“It brings competition for places again and speaking to Danny, he’s desperate to get back playing. He’s with us until the end of the year, which is brilliant for me. He is part of the journey now.
“Being from Widnes, it will mean a lot for Danny and especially for his family as well with them still living in Widnes. He’s got a lot to gain and not a lot to lose.”
Richardson will not be eligible to play in the 1895 Cup final against London Broncos due to RFL Operational Rules.
