Wildcats Make Lee Smith Deal Permanent

The Wildcats have this afternoon completed the signing of Lee Smith on a deal that will see him in Wakefield colours until the end of 2013.
 
25-year old Smith joined from Leeds Rhinos on loan just over two weeks ago and made his debut in the defeat to Wigan Warriors at the Rapid Solicitors Stadium, with the move across West Yorkshire made a permanent one earlier today with the Wildcats beating the 2pm deadline to secure their man.
 
The 2008 Harry Sunderland Trophy winner is in the squad for Sunday’s clash against Huddersfield Giants where he is expected to once again line-up at centre for Richard Agar’s side, whilst his ability to also play on the wing and at full-back will make him a valuable and quality addition to the squad.
 
Smith has played in three Super League Grand Final winning sides as well as two World Club Challenges and a Challenge Cup final during his time at Headingley Carnegie having come through the Rhinos Academy setup.
 
He broke into the first team in 2005 and made his debut against the Wildcats, amassing over 150 appearances during two spells in the blue and amber with a short stint in rugby union with Wasps coming in 2010 before returning to his hometown club.
 
Agar was pleased to secure the England international on a permanent basis.
 
“We’re delighted to capture a player of Lee’s quality,” he said.
 
“We took him on loan knowing that he was out of contract at the end of the year and that there might be a chance to work something out longer term come the end of the season.
 
“Events have obviously sped up over the last 24 hours or so and it’s great for us to get a player who provides us with quality in a number of positions at a time when quality players on the market are few and far between.
 
“Lee’s enjoyed his short time with us so far and we’re looking forward to seeing more of him in the rest of this year and into 2013.”