Ex-Wakefield forward teases return to England after French Elite stint

Josh McAllister
Isaac Shaw, SWPix

Picture by Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com

Former Wakefield youngster Isaac Shaw has teased his return to England on social media following a stint in the French Elite competition. 

The outside-back has been plying his trade with Villeneuve Leopards after leaving the Super League outfit at the end of 2022, making a try-scoring debut back in January against St-Esteve in a 22-18 victory. 

However, with the regular French Elite season heading into the play-offs and Villeneuve finishing last on the table, it means Shaw is back on the move.

The 20-year-old made his Wakefield debut against Catalans in February 2022, going on to make a total of five appearances that season. He also featured twice in the Championship with Sheffield on loan.

Isaac Shaw takes aim at Wakefield

Shaw recently took to social media to take aim at Wakefield, having failed to come to terms on a new deal with the club upon the expiry of his contract last season.

Wakefield continue to pay the youngster, alongside ex-team-mate Jack Croft who joined Queensland Cup side Wynnum Manly Seagulls in Australia, since their departures due to compensation laws within the game. 

The Super League outfit would be entitled to compensation if either of the pair signs for an RFL member club until December 1 of the year they turn 22, having progressed through Wakefield’s systems.

Shaw turns 22 on September 11 1 2024, and could well mean that he is on his way back to his ex-club to help with their struggling season.

Mark Applegarth’s side currently sit at the foot of the Super League table without a win in nine, and hold the worst attacking record of the season so far with just 47 points scored.

Otherwise, it means Wakefield have waived their rights to compensation for him, or a club has paid off the fee to sign the prop forward.

French Elite star and France international full-back Morgan Escare has also recently admitted that he would be open to a move back to the competition.

The 31-year-old left Salford last November with a year remaining on his contract to return to his homeland with French Elite 1 side Carcassonne.

The side finished at the top of the French Elite table, with the start of the play-offs postponed until the weekend of May 6/7 due to the international fixture between England and France.

“A return to the Super League would be very interesting if a club would be interested,” Escare told Love Rugby League.

“I am open to all offers after the French Elite season.”

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