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Simon's signing on

21/12/2004

OLDHAM have completed what they describe as their 'biggest signing' since the club was reformed with the capture of Simon Haughton.

The 29-year-old former Wigan and Great Britain second-rower has signed a 12 month contract.

He has been turning out for Rugby Union side Orrell for the past two and a half years after losing his place in the Wigan side due to injury.

Oldham chairman Chris Hamilton was delighted with his new recruit.

He said: "This is a fantastic signing for the club which I'm sure will excite the fans. There was interest from Super League sides so this is a real coup for us.

"It's an exciting day and the culmination of a lot of hard work behind the scenes. We have been going through a major overhaul but have been very selective in the players we have brought in to ensure they are top quality."

Mr Hamilton also revealed part of Haughton's contract will be paid for by one of the club sponsors Totalplus Communications.

Coach Gary Mercer believes such a big name acquisition will be an invaluable addition to his squad.

He said: "We have been looking to bring in quality and Simon certainly fits the bill. I've come up against him in my playing days. He is very physical and I always rated him highly.

"He is precisely the type of player we want at this club and will be a great help to me on the training field. It's an exciting day and I'm really looking forward to the 2005 season."

Haughton added: "I'm joining a club with a lot of ambition who look like they are really going places. I've been looking to get back into Rugby League for some time so am delighted to be joining a club with a good fan base and a great tradition."

Haughton will also be involved in work in community development on behalf of Roughyeds.

Mr Hamilton said: "We have been involved in a successful anti-bullying campaign which we have taken to local schools. The message is much more effective coming from a role model such as Simon."