Hull Daily Mail

Mustapha is KR’S third new signing

- By JAMES O’BRIEN james.obrien@reachplc.com jamesobhdm

HULL KR have confirmed the signing of young Leeds Rhinos prop Muizz Mustapha on a season-long loan.

The 20-year-old has made three firstteam appearance­s for the Rhinos, with two of those coming in the second part of the Super League season.

Mustapha signed a new two-year deal with Leeds before making the move to Craven Park.

“I’m excited to get the chance to play for Hull KR next season,” he told KR TV.

“Hull KR is a great club with a great coach and loads of good players there.

“I’m really looking forward to this new chapter. It gives me a chance to play more and hopefully develop a bit more.

“I’ve heard loads of great stuff about Tony (Smith). A few lads at Leeds have been coached by him and they say he’s a great coach.

“Danny Mcguire is obviously really experience­d and was one of the greatest Super League players. I’m looking forward to seeing how they can help me develop.”

Rovers head coach Tony Smith expects the committed young forward to add more grunt to his side following the signings of fellow prop Albert Vete and powerful winger Ryan Hall.

“He’s a young man who’s had a little taste of it at Leeds Rhinos,” said Smith.

“He’s well respected and regarded there. He was brought to our attention and is probably looking for an opportunit­y to break through and play some games.

“We also identified him as a young talent that we can see developing through our programme.

“He’s keen to come across and take an opportunit­y. We’re also keen to give potential players an opportunit­y.

“He’s made a good mark so far. He’s certainly a player that’s very willing, very brave and puts himself about.

“Muizz has a really exciting future and I’m looking forward to working with him.”

Leeds director of rugby Kevin Sinfield will be keeping a close eye on Mustapha’s progress in 2021.

“Muizz has worked incredibly hard this season with the firstteam squad and is ready to take the next step in his developmen­t,” said Sinfield.

“With no reserve competitio­n next season, Muizz has the confidence of a season-long loan at Hull KR to continue his progress and the security of a contract for 2022. I look forward to seeing how he develops next season.”

 ?? MATTHEW MERRICK PHOTOGRAPH­Y ?? Muizz Mustapha
MATTHEW MERRICK PHOTOGRAPH­Y Muizz Mustapha
 ??  ?? Tony Smith
Tony Smith

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