Leigh hope to extend Joe Shorrocks loan

Leigh coach Adrian Lam says he hopes to have Joe Shorrocks available for longer after impressing in his two-week loan period.

The 23-year-old has helped the Leopards beat Hull KR and St Helens since joining on an initial two-week loan from neighbours Wigan.

Shorrocks started in the back-row against St Helens, helping the Leopards come out 20-12 winners.

Speaking after their win over the champions, Lam said: “When he was available to come on loan I couldn’t get him quick enough.

“I tried to get him last year when we were in the Championship because I know what he is capable of doing.

“We’ve got a lot of older heads here at the club so we want to try to filter some young ones through to make sure we get the recruitment and retention right moving forward.

“It’s not about just the now, which is what clubs in the past have got caught up with.

“It was a two-week loan and then on a week-to-week basis, so I’ll presume we’ll have him as long as everyone is healthy at Wigan. Let’s hope that continues.”

Joe Shorrocks impressing during loan spell

The Wigan-born youngster has made 57 appearances for his hometown club, including 13 starts, scoring two tries.

Shorrocks has linked up with Lam, who handed him his first team debut back in April 2019 against Wakefield.

Speaking to LeopardsTV when his loan was first announced, Shorrocks commented: “I spoke to my manager a few weeks ago. I know a few of the boys and I know Lammy (Adrian Lam), obviously I played under him at Wigan. I spoke to my manager and the ball got rolling pretty quickly.

“I’m excited to be here.

“I want to test myself. I’m not getting a lot of game time at Wigan, so coming here is a great opportunity for me to play more minutes and get more game time.”

Wigan head coach Matt Peet said: “This is an excellent opportunity for Joe and suits all parties.

“Following a quality pre-season, regular games in Super League will best prepare Joe to perform when he gets an opportunity with us.”

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