Adrian Lam excited for Jackson Hastings’ arrival at Wigan in January

Adrian Lam says 2019 Man of Steel Jackson Hastings is the last piece of the puzzle for 2020, ahead of the Great Britain international’s arrival in January.

Hastings, 23, has been afforded some further time off following his exploits in reaching the Super League Grand Final with Salford and making his international debut for Wayne Bennett’s side in November.

There had been some speculation that the former Manly half-back wouldn’t be taking up his deal with Wigan, but that was soon quashed by the club.

Lam told the club’s official website: “Jackson is the last piece of the puzzle for this squad for 2020. We’re in a pretty good position as opposed to last year with injuries and players actually having a pre-season, and we’ve got a fair bit of work into them.

“I think Jackson’s arrival will bring plenty of enthusiasm; the Club will be buzzing, as well as the players.

“He doesn’t have much time to fit in and I’m sure it will take a couple of weeks at the start of the season before he gets the understanding in how we want to play and what he can offer the team, and we’re looking forward to that.”

Wigan get their season underway at home to Warrington on Thursday January 30.

Before that, they take on London Skolars in the annual Capital Challenge at the Honourable Artillery Company on Friday January 17.

Leeds visit the DW Stadium on Sunday January 19 for Liam Farrell’s testimonial match, before a final friendly against Championship side Leigh on Thursday January 23.

Lam also revealed that 13 youngsters, including full-back Umyla Hanley, son of the legendary Ellery, have been training with the first-team squad during pre-season.

The return of a mandatory reserve grade competition is set to provide further opportunities for the fringe players across Super League.