Newcastle coach Nathan Brown has praised new Knights signing Joe Wardle who joins the club from Huddersfield in England after a trade with outgoing Newcastle fullback Jake Mamo. Brown coached Wardle in the English Super League and has likened the utility to Australian representative Sione Mata’utia.

“Joe is a robust type of centre that can also play back row,” Brown said.

“He’s more that sort of player than a centre that can also play wing or fullback.

“He certainly gives our squad a lot more balance, and is in the same type of mould as Sione Mata’utia.

“I coached Joe for a number of years and I’ve followed his career since then.”

Brown said that Mamo’s exit would only be beneficial for the young custodian.

“It’s just about gaining that experience at fullback,” he said.

“Fullback is the toughest position in the NRL and this competition can be quite unforgiving when you’re learning

“Definitely the best course for Jake to become a long-term fullback is to go over to the Super League.”