Analysis: Jarrod Sammut to provide spark in Wigan’s attack
A lot of eyebrows were raised on Saturday morning when Wigan announced they had signed Jarrod Sammut, but this could be a masterstroke of a signing.
The Malta international parted ways with newly-promoted Super League side London Broncos last month because he wanted to move back up North due to family circumstances.
He was linked with a host of clubs – as expected – but not many could say there weren’t shocked to see him joining Super League champions Wigan.
The move created mixed reaction on social media. Some Wigan supporters were saying it was a poor and cheap option for the club, while others were made up to have him.
It is probably the strangest transfer of the off-season so far – but he could make a big difference to the Warriors.
One of the best traits in Sammut’s locker is his off the cuff style of play. Teams struggle to defend against Sammut at times, purely because they don’t know what he is going to do next.
He is one of them rare players who can create something from absolutely nothing.
Remember London’s exhilarating victory over Widnes Vikings in the first round of The Qualifiers? He ripped the Vikings to bits with his dazzling darts and quick feet. There is no doubting Sammut’s ability, that’s for sure.
He has been in the Championship since leaving Wakefield Trinity in 2015, but he is still in great shape and his fitness wouldn’t be below par after a pre-season with Wigan.
Sammut might not be a starter at first and he might have to play some games on dual-registration for Swinton Lions, but if he bides his time – there is no reason why he can’t push his way into the Wigan team and make a difference.
With Tommy Leuluai coming towards the end of his career, Sammut could fill that void in the halves or even be that ’14’ off the bench.
The 31-year-old could provide that spark in Wigan’s attack and build up a good combination with George Williams in the halves.
Only time will tell whether or not Sammut is going to be a hit at the Warriors, but he won’t be on huge wages at the club so both parties haven’t really got anything to lose. Sammut could be one exciting signing for Super League – not just the Warriors.