Coach Woolford’s joy at Uate’s signing

Huddersfield Giants coach Simon Woolford hailed the capture of another “world-class” winger after the glamour signing of Fiji star Akuila Uate.

The ex-Australia international has joined from Manly Sea Eagles on a three-year deal and will be one of Super League’s biggest arrivals for 2019.

Uate, 31, was named the NRL’s best winger during three consecutive years.

He played State of Origin New South Wales. scored three tries in five Tests for the Kangaroos and remains Newcastle Knights’ greatest-ever scorer with 110 in 161 games.

“Akuila is a player with true class and pedigree having scored over 100 NRL tries and playing at the highest level internationally as well as in State of Origin,” said Woolford, who worked with the player during his own time at Newcastle.

“In Akuila Uate and Jermaine McGillvary we have two worldclass, outstanding wingers who are capable of scoring some magnificent tries and making some big metres during games.

“Aku will really strengthen our side as well as help to develop the number of talented young wingers at the club, particularly Innes and Louis Senior.”