Zak Hardaker: Leeds return like going back to your old school

Zak Hardaker says it will be like going back to his old school after Leeds confirmed his return to Headingley.

The 30-year-old England international, who was a free agent after being sensationally released by Wigan last Friday, has signed a short-term contract with the club he made his Super League debut for 11 years ago.

Hardaker, who won three Grand Finals with the Rhinos and was named Man of Steel in their treble-winning season in 2015, will spend the rest of the season with the club and is likely to go straight into the team to play Hull KR at Headingley on Friday.

The move was sparked by a glut of injuries, particularly to Leeds’ outside backs, and sanctioned by new head coach Rohan Smith, who is due to arrive from Australia in time for Friday’s game.

“It is a strange feeling at the moment,” Hardaker said. “I suppose a bit like going back to your old school.

“I have fond memories of my time at Leeds and the opportunity to come back this year is really special.

“I have spoken to Rohan Smith so we can get a feel for each other. He is arriving on the same week and it was good to understand what he is looking for.”

Hardaker scored 67 tries in 155 appearances for Leeds, mostly from full-back, after joining them from Featherstone in 2010 and went on to win two Challenge Cups and a League Leaders Shield in addition to his three triumphs at Old Trafford.

He left the club after a run of poor form in 2016  to join NRL side Penrith Panthers but made just 11 appearances for the Australian club and resurrected his Super League career with Castleford in 2016.

Hardaker helped the Tigers reach a maiden Grand Final the following year but was stood down on the eve of the match and subsequently sacked after testing positive for