The Newcastle Knights has signed forward Mitch Barnett and outside back Brendan Elliot, both to contracts for this season and 2017.
“Mitch and Brendan are both young players who immediately improve our squad,” coach Nathan Brown said.
The 22-year-old Barnett is an edge back-rower who has played two NRL games and won the NSW Cup Player of the Year in 2015. He returns to the Knights after playing in the lower grades before linking with the Canberra Raiders in 2013.
“Mitch is an edge player, which is important. He is willing, he’s aggressive and a very good line runner,” Brown said.
“He has been unlucky to not play more games but he’s been behind some very good players at Canberra.
“He was wanted by a number of clubs so it is pleasing he is returning to the Knights.”
Elliot moves to the Knights from the Sydney Roosters, and at 22 years of age, he has played 14 NRL games.
“Brendan is a very good technical player and has been at a Club playing with good players and within a good system,” Brown said.
“He is defensively solid and he is only going to improve getting regular game time.”
Barnett and Elliot join the Club effective immediately after their respective Clubs granted them a release this week.
“Mitch and Brendan are both ready to play NRL and provide plenty for our team and Club,” Brown concluded.
