Leigh Leopards boss Adrian Lam predicts ‘big future’ for loanee: ‘I think we can take him to another level’

Leigh Leopards coach Adrian Lam believes the club can help take young prop Dan Norman to ‘a level that’s as good as any in Super League’.

The Ireland international front-rower linked up with the Leopards on loan last month from Super League champions St Helens ahead of a rumoured permanent switch.

Norman, who also enjoyed a spell on loan with Leigh last season, has made three appearances since linking back up with Lam’s side this term.

Last month, Rugby League Live reported that Norman is set to leave the Saints upon the expiry of his contract at the end of the season, with Leigh set to bolster their squad further for 2024.

“He’s going to have a big future for us Dan,” Lam told Love Rugby League after their 34-4 win over Hull KR on Friday night, which saw them climb to second in the Super League table.

“I’m really hopeful of getting him to a level that’s as good as any in Super League.

“He hasn’t played much rugby over the last two years. He’s been in a really good system there (at St Helens) but hasn’t played that much so I think with every game he plays for us and the longer minutes he plays, the better he’s going to be.

“I’m really excited to see how he develops.”

Leigh Leopards can help take Dan Norman ‘to another level’

Norman made his international debut for Ireland at last year’s World Cup, playing against New Zealand at Headingley.

The 6ft 5in, 110kg prop was born and raised in Warrington but qualifies to play for the Wolfhounds via his Irish heritage.

Norman came through the academy at Widnes and had a short spell with London Broncos in 2020 before joining St Helens ahead of the 2021 campaign.

Lam believes the Leopards can help take Norman’s game to the next level.

Lam added: “He played with us last year in the Championship and I really liked how he went about things.

“I thought that if we could just get a hold of him, I think we can take him to another level and I’m really excited about that project ahead.”

The Leopards are currently second in the Super League table and are in the semi-finals of the Challenge Cup, facing St Helens in the semi-final at Warrington.

Next up for Leigh is a trip to Castleford on Friday night, 8pm kick-off.

READ NEXT: Leigh Leopards climb into second in Super League as Adrian Lam provides injury latest on duo