Josh Charnley makes immediate switch to Leigh

Drew Darbyshire
Josh Charnley Warrington Wolves

Warrington winger Josh Charnley has joined Leigh on loan for the rest of the season, with a two-year deal commencing from 2023.

Charnley, who turns 31 on Sunday, fell out of favour in Daryl Powell’s Warrington side and was out of contract at the end of this season.

The former England international is a huge coup for Championship promotion-chasers Leigh though. He has scored 255 tries in 301 career appearances.

Leigh coach Adrian Lam said: “It is really exciting news for the club, the squad and me as coach.

“He brings us lot of experience, as he is one of the leading try scorers of all-time in Super League and coming into our group now is good timing for us all. It keeps people on their toes.

“Josh understands what his role will be here going forward. He will not just be shoved in at the deep end. He will need a couple of weeks training with us to earn his spot through that process.

“Keeping in mind, he is signing for the rest of this season, which is a massive immediate boost for us and looking into the future.

“This signing is another indicator of how aggressive we are with moving forward, as we sign another quality player.”

Josh Charnley excited to a fresh challenge with Leigh

Charnley said: “I’m really excited at this opportunity to play for Leigh, become part of the team and contribute towards helping them get up to Super League where they belong.

“I’ve been watching them the past few weeks and the team seems like they’re in a good place.

“I’ll be looking to help out in any way possible. If that means helping to mentor the younger boys in the squad then yes I can’t wait.

“I just want to enjoy my rugby again”

“The last few years been difficult on and off the field. I want to get back playing my best rugby again because I’m far from finished and I’ve got a lot to give so let’s go Leythers.”

Charnley has won two Super League titles and three Challenge Cups. He has won nine caps for England.

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