Stanley Signs For Tykes

Stanley, with 56 caps, is Canada's leading Test try-scorer with 11 tries. The veteran of two World Cups is renowned for his versatility and has played at full-back and centre as well as his favoured position on the wing.

The 28-year-old was a member of the Leicester Tigers side which won the Heineken Cup and domestic league double two seasons ago.

Stanley left Leicester to play for Worcester at the start of last season, and enjoyed a summer's rugby playing in his native Canada for James Bay in British Colombia.

But Leeds Director of rugby Phil Davies has persuaded Stanley to put pen to paper and return to England.

"I'm pretty fortunate to get this chance. All the players in Canada want to compete in the top flight here," said Stanley.

'I did not expect to return to the Premiership, although I'm delighted to do so.'

And Davies seemed equally delighted to have the player in his side.

'Winston has a host of experience and will be a key addition to our squad,' he said.

'He knows the English game having played here before and he comes off the back of touring with Canada so he is match fit.'

Leeds are riding high in the Zurich Premiership, despite losing 28-10 to Gloucester at the weekend, the Yorkshire club remain in third place in the table, a remarkable turn-around for a side that struggled through last season.

Leeds have secured the signings of a number of highly rated players in recent months. Argentine international Diego Albanese was signed from Gloucester during the summer, and Leeds further strengthened their back division with the signature of George Harder from Auckland. And Wales 'A' player Alix Popham was lured from Newport last month.

But Leeds will not be able to use either Stanley or Popham unless they progress to the semi-finals of the PARKER PEN CHALLENGE CUP in keeping with tournament rules.

Leeds take on last years' PARKER PEN SHIELD runners-up Pontypridd in round two, leg one of the PARKER PEN CHALLENGE CUP.