Gateshead sign half-back Aitken

Aitken was an NRL Grand Final winner with Melbourne Storm

Gateshead have signed Australian half-back Russ Aitken from French side AS Carcassone on an 18-month deal, subject to international clearance.

The Rugby Football League have already approved the transfer, which will go through on 1 June, and the 23-year-old said he is excited about the switch.

"I am really looking forward to joining Gateshead," he told the club's website.

"I have had a successful spell with AS Carcassonne, but I was impressed with the vision that Thunder have shown."

Aitken has played at the highest level of rugby league in his native country.

He was a National Rugby League Grand Final winner with Melbourne Storm and was also part of the side that lost to Leeds Rhinos in the 2008 World Club Challenge.

He is a real quality player and there can't be many Thunder players who have played in the NRL Grand Final and World Club Challenge

Thunder coach Chris Hood

Coach Chris Hood said the signing is a major coup, particularly given the loss of half-back Dan Russell at the end of last season, and will add extra depth to a squad that will soon be bolstered by a trio of imports from fellow French side Pia.

And Hood has been delighted by the support from the board, which has enabled the club to bring in such quality imports.

"I am delighted that we have been able to secure Russ' signature. He is a real quality player and there can't be many Thunder players who have played in the NRL Grand Final and World Club Challenge. Russ will bring vital experience to the squad," he said.

"The board and in particular, Steve and Sarah Garside, have been fantastic in supporting recommendations for the squad and I thank them for finding room in the budget to sign Russ.

"Importantly, Russ has signed for this season and 2010 and joins a group of players who are already committed to Thunder for the next two seasons."