Off the Record: Rugby League Rumours and Gossip #183
Which Bradford star are Widnes targeting? Will Sean O’Loughlin carry on in 2020? Which Salford playmaker is off to Wakefield? Find out in the rumour and gossip column.
Widnes eye Bradford star
After finally offloading big earning Anthony Gelling, Widnes Vikings are now awaiting the decision of their remaining full-time contracted players, who could sit on their existing deals despite the club going part-time.
This will have a significant impact on coach Kieron Purtill’s budget, though one player rumoured to be of interest is Bradford Bulls centre Jake Webster.
Carr considering future
Ryan Carr is thinking about his future as Featherstone Rovers head coach.
The Australian joined Rovers on a two-year deal ahead of this season but is attracting plenty of interest on both sides of the globe. A couple of Queensland Cup sides are believed to be keen on securing his services, while a full-time deal to be Leeds Rhinos’ assistant next year is believed to be on the table. Carr is currently considering all options.
O’Loughlin to go around again
Wigan Warriors captain Sean O’Loughlin is expected to sign a fresh one-year deal with the club.
The 36-year-old has been on a rolling deal with his hometown club for several years now and is currently in talks with Wigan over a new deal for 2020. O’Loughlin, who has made 22 appearances this season, would like to go around again next campaign.
Wood to Wakefield
Wakefield Trinity are believed to have signed hooker or half-back Josh Wood from Salford Red Devils for next season and beyond.
The 23-year-old has only made four first-team appearances for the Red Devils in 2019 and it’s understood that he’ll make the move over to West Yorkshire for next year.
Castleford left frustrated
Castleford women’s team have been left frustrated after discovering they won’t receive medals following their League Leaders’ Shield triumph.
Medals were noticeably absent at the recent presentation of the shield, unlike the men’s, and it had been thought they had simply been delayed. Although the women’s game has progressed, it still needs greater external investment, though the RFL’s move to pay international players has been welcomed.
Bennion attracting attention
Gavin Bennion is likely to be on his way out of Swinton Lions, following the dramatic resignation of the club’s board.
Although the outgoing board have pledged to honour deals in place for 2020, the club won’t stand in his way if he decides to take up an offer elsewhere, of which there are a number of suitors.
More on site
Ted Chapelhow extends Widnes stay
Jackson Hastings WILL play for Great Britain this autumn
Toronto trio named in Ireland squad for World Cup qualifiers
From zero-hour contracts to full-time rugby league player: The sensational rise of Matty Ashton