Tigers snap up Warrington's Cooper

Cooper played in the Wolves' last 12 matches of the 2009 season, including the Challenge Cup final at Wembley, but has yet to force his way into Tony Smith's line-up this year.

He has joined up with the Tigers on a month's loan, alongside Wigan winger Shaun Ainscough, and could make his debut against Catalans Dragons in Perpignan on Saturday, although there is a doubt about that match because of heavy snow in the south of France.

"Mike is a big strong young forward who I feel can do a good job for us," said Castleford coach Terry Matterson.

"We have lost Paul Jackson for around a month and, with our previous injuries, we have found ourselves a little short on numbers.

"Mike played in a Cup-winning side last year and has a fair bit of Super League experience so he is ready to go and he is set to play for us against Catalans this Saturday.

"At present he has joined us on a one-month deal but like Shaun Ainscough, there is the possibility of that being extended if things work out."

Cooper said: "I'm looking forward to a new challenge. Warrington are going well and it's hard to get in at the moment so this is a good opportunity for me to get some Super League time.

"I've been at Warrington all of my career so this is total change for me but, having just met the lads, it seems a good squad and I'm sure that I will fit in."