Newcastle secure services of experienced Samoa international

Drew Darbyshire

Newcastle have pulled off a major coup in signing Samoa international Matthew Wright on a deal until the end of the season.

The 28-year-old – who joins Thunder from Intrust Super Cup side Central Queensland Capras – can play full-back, wing, centre and hooker.

Wright has made over 100 appearances in the NRL with Cronulla Sharks, North Queensland Cowboys and Manly Sea Eagles, while earning seven caps for his country.

Newcastle coach Simon Finnigan said: “Matthew is going to add strike and competition to our outside-backs.

“He is an experienced player who will fit in very well into our group.”

Wright is expected to arrive on Tyneside midway through June as they aim to gain promotion to the Championship this season.

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