Highly-rated Leeds Rhinos youngster makes surprise move to Betfred Super League rivals Hull KR

Betfred Super League rivals Hull KR today (Wednesday) announced the signing of winger Neil Tchamambe on a two-year deal.

Tchamambe was a member of Rhinos’ academy title-winning squad last year - when he scored 11 tries - and featured for Leeds at under-18 and reserves level this season.

The 18-year-old made his England academy debut in July, scoring a hat-trick in a 33-20 win over France under-19s at Stade Jules Ribet in Saint-Gaudens.

The Robins’ coach Willie Peters said: “I watched Neil in the Yorkshire versus Lancashire Academy Origin at [Hull KR’s] Sewell Group Craven Park; he's a big body, finds his front when he's carrying the ball and he has some real speed when he gets going. We're confident Neil can apply himself and develop into a Super League player here at Hull KR.”

Tchamambe, who started out with the Leeds Irish Clovers community club, described joining Rovers as “an honour”.

He said: “There's a huge buzz surrounding the club at the moment, especially with all the new signings that are coming in and I'm really excited to join the same environment as these players.

“Seeing how the club has improved over the past few years is incredible and I can't wait to be part of the progress.

“My main focus is my personal development as a rugby player and gaining experience in a first team environment, learning from the older and experienced players.

“Hopefully through that I'm able to grab a first team debut and solidify myself as a first team Super League player.”