Leigh Centurions have announced that second-rower Sam Hopkins has agreed a permanent two-year deal following a spell at Wigan Warriors.

The 25-year-old, who began his career at Leigh, struggled in his attempts to cement a place in the Wigan team, which resulted in a loan return to the Sports Village in 2014.

Hopkins continued his loan stay at the start of the year, but has now decided to sign for Leigh on a permanent basis.

Head coach Paul Rowley told the club's official website: "It's great to have Sam as part of our squad for next year as we continue to work hard to progress our playing squad.

"I have a particular focus on athletic middles at the minute as I envisage a reduction in allowed interchanges within the sport and therefore Sam and players of his physical ability become very valuable assets moving forward."

Hopkins made 20 appearances for Leigh last year.