Aston optimistic about Irish development

Sheffield Eagles and Ireland coach Mark Aston is feeling positive about the development work currently being undertaken in the Emerald Isle.

Mike Russell and Clark McAllister have inked deals with Coventry and Oxford respectively in League 1 for the coming season, and Aston feels that more Irish players could soon be ready to move over and progress.

“Obviously, it’s nice for Mikey Russell to get over here and have a go at this sort of level,” he told Love Rugby League.

“We’ve done it in the past [at Sheffield] – I’ve had success with the likes of Carl de Chenu and Tim Bergin.

“We’ve had a bit of success in the past few years with the kids over there, getting them coached and getting them playing to a reasonable level.

“And now they’re getting the opportunity to come over here and have a go.

“There’s a couple of good kids who wouldn’t look out of place in the Championship.”