Stanley Gene cannot wait for the start of the new engage Super League season after agreeing to rejoin Hull KR, his first British club, following their promotion.

Gene first joined Rovers in 1996 and spent four seasons at Craven Park before stepping up to the top flight with Hull FC, Huddersfield Giants and most recently Bradford Bulls.

"I'm so pleased Hull KR are in Super League," he said.

"They are back where they belong. It is a sleeping giant, I think.

"I owe them a big favour. The club and the supporters were great to me last time and I just wanted to come back and say ‚'thank you'.

"I came here when there was famine back home in my village and they really made me feel at home.

"I had four really good years here and I left only because I wanted to play in Super League, at the highest level. I took a chance."

Gene continues to defy age on the field and has no doubt he can continue at the top level for some time.

"It is another challenge for me," he said.

"People have said I'm past it or too old - but I want to show them.

"We are not just here to make up the numbers. I'm ready for another season and, touch wood, I can play 10 more!"