title: Michael Ratu
text: # Michael Ratu
  
  Michael Ratu (born 16 October 1987) is a Fiji international rugby league footballer who plays as a centre for the Swinton Lions in the Betfred Championship.
  
  His usual position is centre although he made his First Team début on the wing as a substitute against Salford in August 2007.
  
  ## Background
  
  Ratu was born in Rochdale, Greater Manchester, England, and played junior rugby at Rochdale Mayfield
  
  ## Playing career
  
  Before joining Leeds, he played for Higgleshaw Cagies, playing for them when they won the Oldham Cup. He also played for Wigan Academy. He signed a three-year contract with Leeds, despite Wigan offering him a new contract. He played for Leeds' academy from 2004. Although he played for Leeds' first team, he mostly played in the academy. He played for the Fiji in the 2009 Pacific Cup. Ratu later signed a two-year deal with Hull Kingston Rovers. In 2012, Ratu signed for Rochdale.
  
  ## Outside rugby
  
  Ratu was schooled at Falinge Park High School near Shawclough, Rochdale.
  
  ## Honours
  
  He has represented England U15s ad U16s and has also played for Lancashire and Fiji.
  
  