Catalans recall loan players to cover suspensions

James Gordon

Photo credit: Ben Challis

Catalans have recalled Corentin Le Cam and Cesar Rouge from their loan spell at Championship club Whitehaven.

The Dragons have been hit this week with suspensions to hooker Michael McIlorum and forwards Dylan Napa and Sam Kasiano.

Le Cam and Rouge made two appearances for Whitehaven, including in the surprise draw at Batley at the weekend.

They have now returned to Perpignan ahead of Magic Weekend, where Catalans play Warrington.

Whitehaven coach Jonty Gorley said: “It’s been quite a fast process with Cesar and Corentin. We’d just received confirmation off Alex Chan that he was sorting the paperwork out for them both to stay for the rest of the season, then Ashley got a call to say Catalans needed all their loan players back, as they’ve got injuries and suspension to deal with.

“Both Cesar and Corentin integrated brilliantly at Whitehaven and you could see that they have got some talent and a great future in front of them. It’s unfortunate it’s been cut short for them, with us, because they were doing us a job and gaining experience at the same time. I hope they both do well in their quest to be established Super League players.”

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Bright futures

Le Cam made his France debut against England last season and has featured once for Catalans in 2022.

He made his Super League debut last year and has five appearances for the Dragons in total – having cut his teeth playing for reserve side St Esteve in the French Elite Championship.

The tall second-rower scored a try as Whitehaven drew 26-26 at Batley; with Rouge appearing off the bench in the same game.

Half-back Cesar Rouge played for France in their recent 34-10 international win over Wales.

The 19-year-old has twice been an unused substitute for Catalans in 2022.

He started at stand-off on his Whitehaven debut against York, kicking two goals.

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