I always loved playing for the Tykes and I have kept an eye out for their results Chris Murphy

Murphy, who has also played for West Hartlepool, Sale and Rotherham, will rejoin the club on a two-year contract from the 2004-2005 season.

"Playing in France has been a good experience for me and hopefully I can use what I have learnt over there to good use when I return," he said.

Murphy made 49 appearances for the Tykes between 2001 and 2003.

"I'm delighted to have re-signed Chris and brought him home from France," said director of rugby Phil Davies.

"Whenever you sign a new player there is always the worry about how they will settle in at the club but we will not have that problem with Chris.

"Even while he has been away he has been a regular visitor to Headingley and he is excited about coming back as well."

Murphy added: "I said when I left Headingley that I would like to be able to return some day so I am really pleased that Phil has given me this chance.

"I always loved playing for the Tykes and I have kept an eye out for their results this season as well as coming to a few games to watch my brother.

"There is a great group of young players at the club now and next season looks like it will be really exciting."