Isa has signed a one-year deal with the Tigers

Willie Isa says the chance to play under head coach Terry Matterson was a big reason for him joining Castleford Tigers for Super League XVI.

The former Melbourne centre arrived in the UK on Friday morning after agreeing a one-year contract with the club.

Isa told BBC Radio Leeds: "I'm really can't wait to work under Terry Matterson and I think Castleford will really come good this season.

"To play against big clubs like Leeds and Wigan was a big attraction too."

The 22-year-old, who can also play on the wing, was signed from the NRL as a direct replacement for James Evans, who was forced to retire through injury at the end of last season.

Despite only arriving in the country on Friday, the centre could make his Castleford debut in Sunday's pre-season friendly with Batley Bulldogs.

"It's great to finally be here. I've meet the guys and some of the staff. They seem a good lot. Lots of funny guys in the team. So it looks good," said Isa, who says he is a huge Arsenal fan.

"Terry gave me a call in the week and mentioned a could play this weekend.

"We'll play that by ear and see how I feel after the jet-lag really kicks in.

"For now I'm just really keen to get to know the boys and get training with the team and be in that team environment again.

"I hope over here I can improve as a player. But my main focus is helping the team move forward.

"I believe if the team goes well, individual efforts come with it. I just want to work hard with the coached and my team-mates to get the maximum results we deserve."

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