Off the Record: Rugby League Rumours and Gossip #205

Ray Mour

Which duo are set to extend their stay with Warrington? What is the latest on Toronto Wolfpack? Find out in the latest gossip column. 

Warrington pair remain

Warrington forward Ben Currie and Jason Clark have all but agreed new deals to stay at the club.

They were the two high-profile off-contract men at the Halliwell Jones Stadium, and while talks have been ongoing since May, the current situation has delayed getting the new contracts done and announced.

Toronto decision

Opinion is still split on the Toronto decision facing Super League clubs, with some feeling that there still hasn’t been enough evidence of a robust business plan or details on how the proposed new ownership can finance the Wolfpack moving forward.

Some are worried of the David Argyle situation repeating itself and how that could impact the competition again.

Clubs frustrated

Clubs have been left frustrated by the news from the government that fans won’t return, with some having spent significant amounts getting prepared to welcome them back.

One club had been working on implementing a QR code system, not only for track and trace, but to enable fans to order food and drink without leaving their seat. While this may prove useful when fans do return, probably next year now, it adds a further stress to budgets.

Marshall future

There is a lot of speculation regarding Benji Marshall’s future at the moment and although his next destination is unknown, reports from Down Under suggest he would like to remain in the NRL.

The New Zealand legend has made more than 300 career appearances and would certainly add valuable experience to his next club.

Players in reserve

Some players in reserve teams have started to look for new clubs for the 2021 season.

The Rugby Football League confirmed back in July that the Reserves League will remain suspended for next year due to the coronavirus pandemic. Some players who are too old to play in the academies at Super League clubs have started to search for first-team opportunities at sides in the Championship and League 1.

Listen to The Final Hooter podcast, featuring exclusive interviews, every week. SUBSCRIBE to Love Rugby League on Apple Podcasts.