Castleford Tigers sign former Warrington Wolves and Salford Red Devils star from Toronto Wolfpack

The 28-year-old has been with the Canadian club since 2018, but - following their withdrawal from Betfred Super League - Wolfpack players have been allowed to find new clubs for the rest of this season.

O’Brien began his career with Warrington Wolves in 2011 and had a two-game spell on loan for Castleford the following year.

He also appeared on loan for Widnes Vikings and St Helens during his time as a Warrington player, before moving to Salford Red Devils in 2016.

O’Brien’s long-range golden point drop goal against Hull KR in that year’s million pound match secured Salford’s survival in the top-flight.

He was ever-present for Toronto last year, scoring 22 points and being named Betfred Championship player of the year as the Canadian side won promotion to Super League .

“I’m very grateful for the opportunity,” O’Brien said of his move to Tigers.

“With Toronto pulling out of the league it gives me a chance to get back playing rugby and enjoying what I do.

“I’m excited to get started.

“I hope to bring a big work ethic, I’ve got a good set of running legs on me and I’m looking to slot nicely into the team.”

He added: “I can’t wait to work with Daryl [Powell, Tigers’ coach].

“I had a quick chat with him this [Monday] morning and he has been very welcoming.

“I’m excited to work with him over the course of the next few months.

“I can’t wait to get going.”

Powell described O’Brien as a “high-quality player who will fit in very neatly into the way we attack”.

He predicted: “He’ll really strengthen us, I think, for the remainder of this season.

“He’s a player we have looked at before and given what has happened with Toronto and our position with Jordan Rankin going home, I thought it was important to get an experienced full-back on board and strengthen us in that position.”

Tigers' director of rugby Jon Wells said: “I would like to welcome Gareth to the Tigers.

"His addition will be a real asset for us going forward. Jordan Rankin’s departure during the suspension of Super League was unforeseen and far from ideal, so I am delighted now we can add a player with the skill set and experience Gareth has to our squad.”

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