Josh Charnley returns to rugby league and joins Warrington

Drew Darbyshire

Warrington Wolves have confirmed the signing of Sale Sharks winger Josh Charnley until the end of the 2020 season with immediate effect.

The 26-year-old will join up with his new team-mates immediately.

He made the switch to Rugby Union after winning the Super League Grand Final with Wigan Warriors in 2016 and went on to play 32 games for Sale.

Charnley said: “I like this club. It’s a good club to be at, there’s a good culture here and I’m looking forward to getting stuck in with the lads and pushing for that top four spot.

“There wasn’t much persuasion needed. I know a few boys here who speak highly of this club so it wasn’t a tough decision to put pen to paper.

“I’ve always liked playing at this stadium, it’s one of my favourites. Hopefully I’ll fit straight in with the boys.

“I’ve been out of the game 17 months and I’ll be looking to bring some enthusiasm to the boys and bring a bit of pace to the team. I’ll try and be a bit physical and try and give the lads a lift.”

Warrington coach, Steve Price, added: “Josh is an exciting talent.

“I kept an eye on him for a number of years prior to him going to Rugby Union. He’s a player who can beat people and break tackles. He’s got electric speed and is a fantastic finisher.

“I feel he can bring something different to what we currently have at the moment.

“Josh is excited to get back to where his passion lies which is Rugby League; he’s excited to come back into the game that he has grown up on all his career and to be joining our football club.”

Charnley scored 149 tries in 151 games for Wigan between 2010 and 2016, also kicking 96 goals. He has scored nine tries in eight games for England, too.