Leigh boss Adrian Lam dismisses Josh Dugan speculation
With the transfer rumour mill in full swing, Leigh Centurions head coach Adrian Lam has put an end to speculation that the club are trying to sign versatile back Josh Dugan.
An experienced Australian, 31-year-old Dugan has not yet played rugby league outside of his homeland. Up until last year, he played in the NRL for Cronulla Sharks but went into retirement after leaving the club.
Leigh have made no secret of their need for bodies to bolster a small squad so far this term, with owner Derek Beaumont adding fuel to the fire with a trademark Twitter post earlier this week. Speaking ahead of this Sunday’s game against London Broncos, Lam dismissed the Dugan rumours though.
“I think when Twitter hots up and when Derek puts something on there, people jump on the bandwagon and start throwing names out there,” Lam said.
We didn’t show interest in Ford or Kerellah and we’re offered both. We are recruiting to strengthen but the players we bring in must do just that. There’s plenty time for that and one will be announced soon enough. Fev are going hard for it how they see fit all good for champ 👍 https://t.co/H2izCF1W7T
— Derek john beaumont (@derek_beaumont) April 18, 2022
“Even my son’s name [Lachlan] has come up at some stage. We haven’t spoken to Josh Dugan. He’s a quality player and as I’ve said with the other players that have come up, he is someone that we’d be interested in talking to.
“We’ve not spoken to him though, his name has not been brought up. At this point in time, it won’t be happening.
“We’re excited about what’s ahead of us in that area [signings]. It’s about doing the homework and making sure you get the right people for the roles involved.
“In regard to our persistent view of trying to improve the squad, I’m happy with what we’ve got here at the moment.
“News to come out in the next week or two, or three.”
Adrian Lam impressed with new recruit
One signing that Leigh have confirmed is that of forward Kai O’Donnell, who earlier this month joined the club from Cronulla.
23-year-old O’Donnell made his debut in the Good Friday win at Widnes Vikings. Lam was happy with how he fared, adding: “He’s outstanding, a quality signing for us.
“We’ve done our homework on him and he’s the type of player that we want at this club. I think that he’s a Super League player moving forward, and I think he’s brought a professionalism off the field to us.
“He’s got that explosive carry and run, a big engine and he can play big minutes with some hidden defence. He’s a real good signing for us. We’re really happy with it.”
Providing Leigh get the job done this weekend, they will move back to the top of the Championship table. Fellow promotion challengers Featherstone Rovers don’t play until Monday evening when they face Bradford Bulls live on Premier Sports.
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