Hull KR full-back Will Dagger signs new deal after "kick up the backside"

The Robins tonight announced the deal for the talented player who will now stay at Hull College Craven Park until at least the end of the 2021 season.

Castleford-born Dagger, 21, has impressed of late, particularly since Australian No1 Adam Quinlan suffered a season-ending injury.

But Rovers coach Tony Smith - who worked with him at Warrington Wolves - said recently how the player came close to being loaned out this term until altering his approach to training.

Dagger admitted: “Me and Tony had a chat pre-season and I think that’s changed my mentality towards training, the game, and day-to-day life.

"I think now I have my opportunity; I can prove what I have been doing in training, but it’s not just what I do at the ground, it’s what I do away from here as well.

“I feel maybe last year and the year before I got a bit too comfortable in my ways and things needed to change.

"Things have changed at home, and I feel like I needed that kick up the backside to get going again.

“Tony has done that, and he’s getting the best out of me. It’s all about mindset, in the gym, you get out what you put in."

On his new deal and ahead of tomorrow's Challenge Cup quarter-final with Leeds Rhinos, he added: “I’m feeling good.

"It adds that bit of security after tough times in the world.

"I feel like I’ve improved my game under Tony and I’m looking to improve it even more. I love this club, I love being here so why not stay for longer."