It’s a done deal for the Shane Flanagan welcome a top star……

Catalans Dragons have announced a season-long loan signing of Hull KR’s Jordan Abdull with no recall option – meaning that the 27-year-old England international will wear a Catalans Dragons shirt for the 2024 season.

In a Catalans Dragons online statement, Jordan Abdull said: “First of all, thank you to all the staff from the club for making this possible, in Rugby League you never know what is around the corner and this is no different.

“I’m excited to be part of this club and experience a new culture and a fresh start for myself. I can’t wait to meet the boys now and rip in and set myself up for a good season with the Dragons!”

Born in Hull, Jordan Abdull made his professional debut for Hull FC in 2014 when he was 18. Following good displays, he quickly earned a spot in the Black and Whites’ squad.

Dragons sign Abdull on a season-long loan

On loan to Doncaster and Featherstone in 2016 and Hull KR the following season to gain experience, the English playmaker joined London Broncos in 2018, where he enjoyed his most successful season, scoring 10 tries in 28 Super League appearances.

After his great season in London, he signed for Hull KR in 2020. He quickly became a key player of the Robins. With 55 games and 13 tries in 4 seasons, he helped his team to reach the Super League play-offs twice, becoming one of the best playmaker in Super League.

Able to tackle hard and create a chance out of nothing with his excellent kicks, he was rewarded with an England call up in late 2021 against France at the Gilbert Brutus stadium.

Catalans Dragons head coach Steve McNamara has commented on the loan signing:

“The addition of Jordan significantly improves both our depth and options for 2024. He is one of the most naturally gifted players in the competition who I believe will flourish both on and off the field in Perpignan.”

Dragons deliver crushing Ashton Hewitt injury update

The Dragons have confirmed that winger Ashton Hewitt underwent surgery on his right knee on Wednesday and is now set for a long spell out of action.

Though a timescale has not been given for the recovery, it is unlikely that the winger will play again this season, which is a damaging blow to the Dragons who sit second from bottom in the United Rugby Championship table.

Head Coach Dai Flanagan said: “We are all devastated for Ashton and it is cruel that a player who has experienced this type of injury before now faces another spell out of the game.

“Ashton has been impressive for us this season, getting back to the levels we know he can produce and being a real catalyst for some of our better performances.

“He has undergone surgery and now starts his journey back surrounded by our medical staff and physios, and with the support and backing of us all at Dragons.

“I am sure our supporters will join us in sending our best wishes to Ashton and wishing him well with his recovery.”