Off the Record: Rugby League Rumours and Gossip #133
Will there be a new head coach at Toronto in 2019? Which Super League club want Joe Mellor? Will Brett Delaney play on next year? Find out more in the gossip column.
McDermott to take over Rowley at Toronto
The big story going around the rumour mill is that Brian McDermott will take over as head coach of Toronto Wolfpack from Paul Rowley next year.
Ex-USA and London Broncos coach McDermott was sacked by Leeds Rhinos earlier this season after spending eight years at the club. It is rumoured that Rowley will not be at the Wolfpack in any capacity next season.
Castleford interested in Mellor
Castleford Tigers are keen on bringing Widnes Vikings star Joe Mellor to the club for 2019.
The 27-year-old is one of Widnes’ most sought-after players following their relegation from Super League last month. Mellor joined the Vikings on a permanent deal from Wigan Warriors ahead of the 2013 season and has most recently been linked with a move to Toronto, but we are told that move will not be happening due to him and his partner expecting a baby. Castleford are believed to be interested in the half-back.
Beaumont in Leigh limbo
The future of Leigh Centurions still looks unclear as owner Derek Beaumont has not yet made up his mind in whether to stick by the club in some form or leave all together.
It was announced in July that Beaumont would quit the Centurions after they failed to take back their place in Super League. The club have failed to attract any potential investors for 2019.
An injury crisis, coupled with the sales of a number of their star names, saw them nearly forfeit the Championship Shield final against Featherstone Rovers last weekend, but the Rugby Football League allowed them to bring in emergency loans. The understanding is that Beaumont has yet to decide whether to stay or leave the Centurions.
Delaney set for Bradford move
Leeds Rhinos forward Brett Delaney is set for a part-time move to neighbours Bradford Bulls for the 2019 campaign, according to League Weekly.
The Rhinos confirmed last week that the 32-year-old will end his time at the club at the end of 2018. He will take up a position with Leeds’ foundation but it has been reported that he will also take up a part-time playing role with Leeds’ old rivals Bradford, who will play in the Championship after beating Workington Town in the League 1 Promotion Final.
RL return on cards for Moore
Former England international Scott Moore has now been released from prison and he could well return to rugby league in 2019.
The 30-year-old was jailed in March for dangerous driving and assaulting three police officers but he has now been released. It has not yet been confirmed whether he will return to the sport or not, but a couple of clubs in Super League and Championship could well take a punt on the hooker for next season.
Hanbury to remain in Super League
Rhys Hanbury is expected to stay a Super League player next term.
The Australian, who is now 33, left Widnes Vikings following their relegation from the top-flight at the end of the Qualifiers and is currently a free agent. Hanbury made over 170 appearances for Widnes after joining from the now defunct Crusaders ahead of the 2012 season. League Express claim that Hull Kingston Rovers are lining up an offer for the full-back.