Castleford Tigers bring in Paul McShane replacement from Widnes Vikings
Jordan Johnstone in action for Widnes Vikings. Picture by Olly Hassell/SWpix.com.
Castleford Tigers have confirmed the signing of Jordan Johnstone from Widnes Vikings for the remainder of the 2023 Super League campaign on loan.
He will help cover the injury to skipper Paul McShane, having fractured his forearm in the 42-10 defeat to Salford earlier in June.
Johnstone, 26, returned to Widnes on a two-year deal ahead of the 2023 campaign, having spent the previous three seasons in Super League with Hull FC, making 56 appearances.
“I’m really excited to be coming to Cas until the end of the season,” Johnstone said.
“These opportunities don’t come around too often to be back playing Super League.
“It’s an opportunity that I definitely wanted to take straight away and I’m looking forward to hitting the ground running potentially on Friday night.”
The hooker has made 13 appearances for the Vikings in the Championship in 2023, with the side having recently parted ways with head coach John Kear following a poor run of form.
“I’ve been back in the Championship this year with Widnes which hasn’t been too straightforward as the results have been up and down, but it’s been good to be playing week in, week out,: Johnstone added.
“I’m really looking forward to getting back to Super League and showing the Cas fans what I am about.
“Lasty is great and is probably the main reason why I am coming over. That first season at Hull FC when he took over as interim coach, he probably got the best out of me and started me.
“He put a lot of trust in me so we have got a great working relationship so hopefully I can come to Cas and deliver the goods for him and for the team.”
Castleford boss on signing of Jordan Johnstone
Johnstone could make his debut this Friday at the Mend-A-Hose Jungle against Adrian Lam’s Leigh Leopards.
“We’ve been looking in the market for a nine and Jordan is someone who I have worked with before in 2020 at Hull FC,” head coach Andy Last commented.
“He’s played a lot of Super League games, so he is someone who knows what it’s all about.
“He’s an honest, hardworking lad who comes with a lot of energy to every session and game he is involved in.
“It will help complement Cain Robb and do the tough stuff at the start of games, and you can then bring on Cain’s dynamism.
“We are conscious of not blocking Cain’s pathway but getting someone to compliment what he brings to the team and Jordan fits perfectly.”
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