Sean Long swaps codes to join Preston Grasshoppers

Sean Long Long retired from playing rugby league in August

Preston Grasshoppers have signed former England and Great Britain rugby league international Sean Long.

The 35-year-old retired from playing in August after spending two years with Hull FC and has since taken up a coaching role at Salford City Reds.

"It's been an ambition of mine to play union and now seemed the right time to do it," he told Grasshoppers' website.

Long will make his Preston debut in National League Two North on 19 November against Hull Ionians.

"Preston Grasshoppers has a great reputation as a club and a team that produces quality players," the former Wigan and St Helens scrum-half added.

"Wade Dooley, Will Greenwood and Steve Borthwick are just a few of the players that have graced the first-team pitch and I'll be delighted to become someone who has joined this impressive list."
LONG'S RUGBY LEAGUE CAREER
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* 1994-97: Wigan
* 1997: Widnes
* 1997-2009: St Helens
* 2010-11: Hull FC

Long's quick return to playing came as a surprise to Salford football director Steve Simms.

"We're in discussions with Sean at the moment," he said.

"We didn't know about it until yesterday. I think he just wants to have a bit of fun."

Long, who also played at half-back, twice set the St Helens record for the number of points scored in a Super League season, 284 in 1999 and 352 in 2000.

Preston Grasshoppers chairman of rugby Michael Bailey has welcomed the arrival of Long.

"Sean is undoubtedly a legend in rugby league and widely respected by fans of the union code," he said.

"To have a player of his calibre in the team will bring a new-found confidence to our players and bring additional skills and abilities to the team.

"Sean will be playing home and away games, which will help other clubs in our league since the Rugby Football Union funding has been dented.

"We're delighted he's signed for us and welcome him to the Hoppers' fold."

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