CHALLENGE AHEAD FOR DANE

DANE McDonald has signed a new one-year deal at the Eagles.

Australian McDonald, 24, joined the Eagles in 2008 and last season played 22 games mainly at stand-off.

With the signing of Dominic Brambani he will be targeting the loose-forward’s shirt.

McDonald’s ability to cover at half-back or in the back row is a bonus for coach Mark Aston. He said: “We’ve had confidence in Dane and that’s why he’s been at the club so long.

“He is potentially a very good player and towards the end of last season he was one of our most consistent performers. His best position is probably 13 but he can play six.”

McDonald has shown his determination by not returning to Australia but staying in Sheffield during the off-season.

Aston added: Dane has the want and the will to be the best. The ‘joker’ seemed to have left him and I’m delighted his peen a 12-month deal.