Andy Last: I had a conversation with Josh Griffin but he chose Wakefield; Recruitment is proving a challenge for Castleford Tigers
Andy Last has confirmed that recruitment is proving a challenge for Castleford Tigers, who missed out on Josh Griffin to relegation rivals Wakefield Trinity earlier this week.
Last is currently in the midst of preparing his side for tomorrow’s trip to Hull FC as they search for a first win in three. They’ll have to do it without versatile back Jordan Turner, who is set for at least six weeks on the sidelines with a broken thumb.
Wednesday saw the official confirmation from Wakefield that they’d captured Griffin following his departure from Hull last week. The experienced head described it as the ‘obvious choice’ to return to Belle Vue, and Last has now confirmed that choice was made over Castleford. The pair know each other – coincidentally – from their time with the Black and Whites.
Andy Last unable to tempt Josh Griffin back to Castleford
He confirmed: “I found out on Saturday morning, so I knew he was available. We had a little conversation, but he’s obviously made the decision to go to Wakefield so that’s on Josh.
“We are actively looking and trying to get the right people to come in to help our group is massively important. The players that come in need to add value to the group and make other players better, sparking a bit of positivity.
“We are looking but it’s all about making sure we get the right person. I can’t really comment on what other teams are doing, all I know is that we are looking and we have made enquiries.
“The final part of it is getting the deal done and that’s the tough bit. Other teams have been a bit more successful in that aspect.”
‘Last’ week a difficult one for Castleford
Tigers chief Last also discussed the difficulty of hearing about Wakefield’s golden point victory over Wigan Warriors last week. It came in the wake of a defeat to Leigh Leopards for Cas, who had opportunities within that game to nudge in front.
Despite the two results, the boss remains confident his side can bounce back tomorrow afternoon when they visit the MKM Stadium.
“Last week was one which hit the group hard. You’re up to your neck in a battle with Leigh, the game Is in the balance, we have an opportunity to post some points and get the game square to get the crowd engaged.
“We don’t take that opportunity and they manage to pull away from us, then the news starts to filter in that Wakefield have beaten Wigan.
“The changing room after the game was a real sombre place, but it was my job to pick them up, and we’ve done that well.
“We’ve had a couple of good sessions this week, the boys are in good spirits and looking forward to the challenge of Hull FC on Saturday.”