Wakefield double raid for Tansey and Walker

The duo take Wakefield’s new signings this week to four as new coach Smith bolsters his squad looking to end a 16-match losing streak.

Tansey, the 28-year-old utility back, and Walker, 23, could make their debuts in next Wednesday’s re-arranged home game against Hull FC, alongside fellow new recruits Michael Sio and Kevin Locke.

Wildcats chairman Michael Carter said: “I am delighted to welcome Jordan Tansey to the club.

“Jordan will provide a genuine competition across all of our back-players.

“I would also like to thank Castleford Tigers and [chief executive] Steve Gill for their corporation in making this move possible. Relations between the two rival clubs off the field have never been better.”

Tansey, who joined Tigers in 2013, has been a regular in their side this year, but recently lost his spot at full-back to Ben Roberts.

Locke will be Wildcats’ first-choice full-back, but Tansey can play anywhere in the backs and at hooker

Tansey began his career with Leeds in 2006 before moving to Australian NRL side Sydney Roosters three years later and also had spells in Super League with Crusaders and Hull before joining Castleford ahead of the 2013 season.

He missed only one game in his first season at the Jungle but has struggled to hold down a regular spot over the last two years and recently lost the full-back spot to Ben Roberts, although he did play against Wakefield twice this season.

Tigers coach Daryl Powell said: “It has been tough recently for Jordan to break into the first team and this opportunity for him to go to Wakefield has come at the perfect time.

“Whilst we have Ben Roberts and Luke Dorn fit again, playing for Wakefield will give Jordan the ideal opportunity to get game time, and I wish him all the best for the rest of the season.”

On Walker, Carter added: “Brian Smith approached me after discussing a role at the club for Anthony.

“I have been suitably impressed with Anthony’s qualities both physically and mentally, and I am sure that he will perform very well for the rest of the season.”