‘That was the appeal of bringing him in’ – Paul Wellens highlights new recruit’s ‘invaluable’ skills; debut chance discussed
Moses Mbye of the Dragons during the NRL Round 19 match between the St. George Illawarra Dragons and the Canberra Raiders at WIN Stadium in Wollongong. Photo by AAP Image/Dean Lewins.
St Helens boss Paul Wellens has highlighted new signing Moses Mbye’s versatility upon his arrival in England, replacing the outgoing Joey Lussick.
The 29-year-old joined his new team-mates from Australia on Tuesday morning, and will be given every chance to make his debut on Friday in the televised home clash with Leeds Rhinos.
He has been named in the club’s 21-man squad with shirt number 35.
The 2019 State of Origin Queensland representative made the immediate switch from another Red V club in St George Illawarra Dragons, with Joey Lussick returning to Australia with Parramatta Eels in the NRL.
Mbye made 194 appearances in the competition Down Under, having made his debut in 2014 for Canterbury Bulldogs against the Newcastle Knights.
He also featured for Wests Tigers in his career Down Under, representing Queensland, World All Stars and the Prime Minister’s XII.
St Helens boss on Moses Mbye & debut chances
“We picked Moses Mbye up from the airport on Tuesday morning at 8:00am and he came and trained with the team,” Wellens said.
“He was desperate to get out on the training field. He’s come straight from terminal three to our training base and not even been home yet, so I think that shows a great sign of his intentions.
“We’ll monitor him and he may be a chance this week, but we certainly won’t take risks.”
Wellens paid credit to the management team that look after both players in helping with a quick transfer, with Lussick signing a deal until the end of 2025 with the Eels.
The 43-year-old, in his first year as a head coach, also pinpointed Mbye’s versatility in a major attraction in signing the former Wests Tigers captain.
Mbye has played almost across the whole back-line through his career, including full-back, half-back and centre, before being used most recently at dummy-half.
“That was the appeal of bringing him in,” Wellens told Love Rugby League.
“First and foremost there, numerous people have told me how much of a good person he is. That’s been very evident since he’s come in.
“He’s so experienced but still so eager to learn from the rest of the group.
“One of the main reasons around having Moses was he brings a wonderful versatility.
“Having that versatility is going to be invaluable for us.”
MOSES MBYE: Everything you need to know about St Helens’ new recruit