Whitehaven have beaten stiff competition to win the signature of young centre Sean Croston from Newcastle Thunder.

Croston has joined Haven on a one-year-deal, choosing to come to the Recreation Ground despite interest from other clubs in the Championship and League 1, and Haven head coach Gary Charlton said he "knew" he had to secure his services after speaking to him.

“Sean is an exceptional talent," Charlton said. "He’s young, enthusiastic and looks like he has plenty of ability.

“He’s come through the St Helens system so he will be well-versed in how to play the game.

"As soon as I talked to him I knew he was someone that needed to be at Whitehaven.

"He is going to be fighting for his place against some recognised, senior players but he said that’s the way he likes it.

"This is a great attitude to have and we are very happy to have him on board.”

Croston said he was delighted to sign with Haven and the team's style of play swayed his decision.

He said: "After speaking to Charlo and some of the blokes I felt Whitehaven was the ideal fit and the best move for me.

"It is somewhere where I feel I will be appreciated the most and give me the best opportunity to showcase my talents and to help the team."

The former Westhoughton Lions junior joined St Helens, came through their youth system and was offered a professional contract.

He went to university in Newcastle and joined Newcastle Thunder's youth set-up before being promoted to the first team squad for the 2020 season.

Croston has represented England at junior level and also England Universities.

Haven chairman Tommy Todd added: “Several Championship and League 1 clubs had been chasing him but once again our football committee has done a great job in persuading him to join."