Mathers joins Wildcats on permanent deal

Wakefield have made full-back Richard Mathers' loan move permanent after completing his signing from Castleford on a two-year contract.

The former Leeds, Wigan and Warrington player made 27 appearances for the Wildcats in 2012 after joining them on loan at the start of the season and was rewarded for an impressive string of performances with the vice-captaincy.

"The feeling I have is one of a big relief," Mathers said. "I have been thankful throughout to Wakefield and it was never in question I wanted to stay because I enjoyed it so much last year.

"To get a two-year deal and represent the club while hopefully playing a big part is something that I really am delighted about.

"I can't remember the last time I enjoyed a season as much. We evolved as a team as we found our way towards the back half of the season and it was a great journey."

Mathers played a key role in Wakefield's run to the play-offs and believes the future for the club is bright.

The Wildcats have also made stand-off Paul Sykes' move from Bradford permanent and signed State of Origin prop Justin Poore and Hull winger Reece Lyne.

"I think we have that continuity because there will not be too much chopping and changing," Mather said.

"We started pre-season with 17 new players and by the time we finished the season we had 20 new players throughout the season and that is just unbelievable.

"It has probably gone unnoticed that the achievement in making the top eight with that fantastic run to say how we started the season new together, including the coaching staff."