Albert signs one-year contract with English second-tier club

PAPUA New Guinea international Wellington Albert signed a one-year deal with English second-tier rugby league club London Broncos on Wednesday, giving the Kumuls a boost for next year’s World Cup.
The 27-year-old was with third-tier club Keighley Cougars this year, but he was unable to make his club debut due to a serious ankle injury he suffered in the pre-season. Albert told The National yesterday that the season-long injury was a huge setback in his career.
“But my family and I have put that behind us and are now excited about the new deal,” the former Leeds Rhino said.
“We are looking forward to relocating to the big city of London.
“It’s a shame I didn’t get to play a single game for the Cougars due to injury.
“But I thank their management and sponsors for taking care of me and my family all season.
“My ankle injury was a massive blow as I had to go through a long recovery.
“But I’m grateful to have fully recovered. I can’t wait to join the Broncos for the 2022 season.
“Despite my bad run with injuries, I’ve proved over the past few seasons that I still have a lot to offer at this level.”
Meanwhile, Broncos head coach Jermaine Coleman said he was relieved to finally get his man after spending weeks to get the signature of the former Penrith Panther. Wellington comes with a fantastic reputation and he’s difficult to handle at his best,” the Betfred Championship coach said.
“He has proven that at all levels of the game. He had a difficult season this year, missing it through injury.
“But he will be fit and firing after a full pre-season under his belt.”