Gleeson spent nine years with the Wolves

Halifax have beaten Featherstone Rovers to the signing of long-serving Warrington Wolves hooker Mark Gleeson.

Featherstone announced on Wednesday they had signed the 26-year-old after he was released from the final three months of his contract with Warrington.

But Gleeson has now signed for Halifax until the end of the season.

Halifax chief executive Graham Clay said: "Contrary to earlier reports, Mark hadn't agreed a deal with Rovers but has now signed for us."

Featherstone have issued a statement claiming Gleeson has reneged on an agreement to play for them until the end of the current campaign.

But Clay added: "We were made aware that Mark was available and moved quickly to make him an offer.

606: DEBATE It does seem a strange decision at this stage of the season, especially with the long-term injuries we have DorsetWire

Gleeson, who was presented to Halifax fans at half-time during their 34-22 win over Leigh on Thursday, joined the Wolves from Ince St Williams in 1999 and spent nine years at the Halliwell Jones Stadium.

He scored 15 tries in 45 starts and 108 substitute appearances for the club.

The hooker found himself playing second fiddle to Jon Clarke in the hooking role, and was largely restricted to making an impact off the bench.

Gleeson's older brother Martin, the Great Britain and England centre, remains with the club.