York Knights secure deals for experienced trio ahead of debut Super League season

The experienced trio played pivotal roles in the club's double Championship success in 2025 and will be tasked with leading from the front as the Knights navigate a challenging first campaign at the top level.

Former Leeds Rhinos, Wakefield Trinity and Castleford Tigers hooker McShane, who won the coveted Man of Steel award during his long first spell in Super League, is fresh from being crowned the best player in the second tier.

"I'm really happy to have re-signed with the club and be part of its history," said McShane, who earned the Championship Player of the Year prize at the end of his first year with York.

"I didn't expect to play Super League again but I'm looking forward to the challenge ahead of us."

Knights boss Mark Applegarth has backed McShane to prove his enduring class on his return to the competition.

"He's 100 per cent got another year in him," said Applegarth, who has added the likes of Paul Vaughan, Sam Wood and Jon Bennison to his squad for the step up to Super League.

"He's been in outstanding form this year and is a real leader by action, not just words.

"I'm over the moon we've got a player of that calibre."

Jones-Bishop – a two-time Super League Grand Final winner with Leeds – topped the Championship try-scoring chart in 2025 after rejoining York from Sheffield Eagles.

Thompson, who counts Castleford, Hull FC and the Rhinos among his former clubs, has been an influential figure during his four-year stint at the LNER Community Stadium.

"Jordy is one of our leaders on and off the field," added Applegarth.

"He's just a really quality player. He's been the leader of our pack for a number of years now and I'm sure he will be for a few more years yet.

"Bish is like a fine wine. I know he's maturing now but he's got some quality rugby left in him, as he's shown this year."