Grateful Kevin Larroyer embracing his second chance with Castleford Tigers

The France international is set to make his second appearance for Daryl Powell’s side in Sunday’s game against St Helens.

Although he signed in mid-February, second-row Larroyer only made his debut in Monday’s 38-0 win at Leigh Centurions having been made to patiently bide his time with the Super League leaders.

However, given he had no club at all in the new year and even contemplated retirement during some worrying times, the 27 year-old is now relishing the current situation.

Larroyer was initially signed up with Hull KR until the end of 2018 but saw his contract become null and void after their relegation following the Million Pound Game loss last October.

He was not offered a new, revised deal and, surprinsgly, struggled to find new employers in the game.

Nevertheless, Powell recognised his qualities and, having spent nine games on loan with Bradford Bulls in the Championship, the player feels ready to kick on at Wheldon Road.

“When I signed for Cas I’d not really had a pre-season,” he told The Yorkshire Post.

“I had a month training at Hull FC but that was it. The time with Bradford really helped me to go play for Cas.

“I had a few games there, it helped the match fitness and helped me build up confidence to be able to bounce back.

“It has been a long time since I last played in Super League but I got the chance at Leigh and was really happy to come back in a game like that. It was a good win.”

Larroyer, who came on in the second period, conceded he did worry he may never play professionally again.

“Yes, it had gone through my mind but you need to try to believe it,” he added.

“It had always been my dream to play Super League so I always chased that, and kept that in mind, and the day has come, but I want more.

“It has been a tough time these last few months but now I’m really enjoying it and trying to make the most of it all.

“There’s still a lot to work on but I’m getting there. I’ll take Monday’s game as a reference to compare against but I would like to play more regularly now.”

With prop Matt Cook and loose forward Adam Milner both facing lengthy lay-offs after being injured at Leigh and second-row Oli Holmes not due to return to action after knee surgery to the Super 8s, Larroyer might get that chance.

And having been relegated with Rovers last term, the former Catalans Dragons forward now finds himself in a Castleford side in the hunt for all three trophies.

“It’s a team full of talented players,” he said.

“You definitely want to be part of this as I think this year something great will happen here.

“With the injured lads, I hope they’re fine but if not and the coach calls me again I’ll put my hand up and do the best I can for the team.”