Josh Griffin makes ‘obvious choice’ to return to first club

Forward Josh Griffin says his return to Wakefield was the ‘obvious choice’ following his departure from Hull FC earlier this week.

Now 33, the back-rower or centre began his career at Belle Vue. Oxford-born, he made his professional debut for Trinity in a Challenge Cup victory over Salford in 2008.

15 years on, he now joins Mark Applegarth’s side as they vie to avoid the drop in Super League.

Penning a contract until the end of 2024, Griffin said, “Wakefield was the obvious choice for me. I was lucky enough to make my first team debut here at 17.

“My goals are to help the club and team out in any way that I can. I will help to prepare the boys for the upcoming games.”

Second debut in season definer

Former Hull man Griffin is currently serving a seven-game ban picked up in the Challenge Cup against St Helens last month.

He picked that up following dissent and a subsequent red card from referee Chris Kendall.

Three of those seven matches have now passed, with Wakefield confirming he will be available for their Round 22 encounter with Castleford.

Those two sides currently lie bottom of the pile, separated by just two points after a recent upturn in form from Wakefield.

The forward added, “I’ll be working hard until I’m available to play again, and I’ll make sure I hit the ground running.

“The Cas game is massive, but I also think every game is just as important.

“Momentum is with us, but it’s important to not look too far into the future and to just concentrate on the next game.”

Wakefield boss pleased with Josh Griffin addition

Griffin was due to see his contract at the MKM Stadium expire come the end of this season.

Trinity head coach Applegarth however acknowledged the importance of the immediate signing for his side.

“I’m delighted that we have secured Josh’s services for the rest of this year and the next one.

“Not only is he a top quality Super League player, he’s a great person who will help drive standards up in training.

“He’s a strong runner of the ball and hopefully he will continue his great form that he was in before his ban.”

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