The scrum-half is to join the Robins on a two-and-a-half-year deal, but has admitted he had to resist the advances of Wigan and Rovers' city rivals Hull before a Craven Park move.

Dobson was credited with playing a large part in Warriors' escape from
relegation in 2006 and he accepts he came close to a return to the JJB Stadium before Hull KR moved for him in the aftermath of releasing their regular scrum-half James Webster due to injury.

"There was interest from Wigan and the other Hull club wanted me too, but as soon as Hull KR came in for me that swung it,'' said Dobson.

"I really did contemplate going back to Wigan – as I had a great time there. But as tough a decision as it was I decided to come to Hull KR as soon as I spoke to coach Justin Morgan.

"I like the direction they're going in as a club. I'm just waiting for my visa to come through then I'm ready to go. I'm looking forward to getting back. I've had good times in England and I'm sure I'll be having some again soon.''

As well as representing Wigan, the 21-year-old also served Catalans Dragons with distinction two years ago as cover for the injured Stacey Jones.

Yet despite New Zealand great Jones tipping him to represent Australia upon his return to the NRL, he failed to hold down a first-team berth at Canberra and now admits he needs to move to Hull KR for the sake of his career.

"I signed a two-and-a-half-year deal at the end of last week and I'm pretty excited about it,'' he said.
"It's really good for me to have secured my long-term future and I look forward to getting to Hull KR.

"They have a great playing roster, with a lot of good players. They have great names such as Clint Newton and Ben Galea, as well as really good English players. I was really impressed with Justin when I spoke to him.

"We spoke a lot about how he rates me as a player and where he can see me fitting in. I'm really looking forward to working with him. He wants me to play a certain way and that's good for me. They're the most progressive club in the competition, with a really good coach.''

Morgan was equally complimentary, and said: "Michael carved himself a reputation as a consistent player.
"The club is happy to be able to attract a player with such ability. I'm looking forward to the impact that he will have here.

"He was a very influential player during his time at Wigan and we will be looking at him emulating that here at Rovers.''
Dobson is expected to make his Hull KR debut in their home game against Harlequins on May 25.