Ex-Castleford Tigers & Hull FC forward Liam Watts signs for surprise new club
Ex-Castleford Tigers, Hull FC and Hull KR prop Liam Watts has been tipped to “make his mark” in the new-look Championship after joining Goole Vikings.
Watts, 35, began last year with Castleford Tigers before a mid-season move to Hull FC, where he was a two-time Challenge Cup winner during an earlier spell. The move reunites him with Vikings head-coach Scott Taylor, who he played alongside at both Hull clubs.
“I’m really looking forward to getting started and getting in and around Scott and the boys,” Watts said. “It seems like a really tight-knit group [and] I’m excited to watch the club grow over the next few years, especially with the new stand opening soon.
“The club has done so well over the last year from a standing start, so it’s an exciting challenge in the Championship to help them continue to grow and see where we can take them and hopefully get some wins on the board in 2026.”
He added: “I played with Scott and I know how committed he is as a person and a player, so to be playing under him will be a great opportunity. It’ll be interesting to see how far he has come from playing into coaching, something I’d like to do myself down the track once I retire. I’m looking forward to playing my part in getting this club to where it wants to be in the future, on and off the field.”
Goole finished seventh in League One last year, in their debut season at professional level. That league has been merged with the Championship to form a new second-tier in 2026.
Taylor said: “Liam is a huge addition for us and a real boost to the squad ahead of the new season. He is someone we know very well, a number of people around the club have worked with him before and we know exactly what we’re getting. We’ve been patient with our recruitment and we identified the need to add experience and a pack leader who can raise those around him.
“Liam fits that profile perfectly, having played Super League just a few months ago. He’s in great condition, he can play big minutes and is very good with the ball in hand. His offload game can be dangerous and with his size and frame, he’ll have a real impact for us.
“He’s a different type of forward to what we already have and that will really complement our pack. We’re excited to have him onboard and to see him make his mark this season.”