Warrington loan Thompson to Hull KR
Hull Kingston Rovers have signed young Warrington Wolves winger David Thompson on loan until the end of the season.
The 20-year-old former Wigan player, who can also play at centre, has been brought in to add competition for places to an injury-hit backs division at the club that has lost Liam Salter (shoulder) and Ryan Shaw (knee) to season-ending injuries.
Head coach James Webster is also without Josh Mantellato, who is around four weeks away from returning to action, whilst youngsters Joe Wardill and Will Oakes will be part of the England Academy squad that leaves for a month-long tour of Australia next week.
Head of Rugby Jamie Peacock said: “At the start of the season, we made a commitment to blood our promising young talent from the City of Hull Academy and resist bringing in players on loan.
“Joe and Will are just two players who have benefitted from that policy with debuts for the club this season, but their selection for international duty means that the circumstances have now changed in the outside backs.
“We are also without Ryan Shaw and Liam Salter for the long-term, not to mention our captain Terry Campese, so we’ve made the most of an opportunity to bring Dave into the club.
“He’s a good young player who has been a regular in Warrington’s reserve team this season and he’s ready to make the step up to Super League level.
“Dave understands what playing for Hull Kingston Rovers is all about and is fully committed to playing his best when his opportunity with us arrives. He will join the squad for training on Monday and we’re looking forward to having him on board.
“I’d also like to take this opportunity to thank Warrington Wolves for their cooperation and for allowing Dave the chance to come here and continue his progression with us until the end of the year.”
Karl Fitzpatrick, Wolves’ head of rugby operations, said: “This is the third player in quick succession who has gained a full-time Super League contract from our reserve grade.
“Not only does this highlight how reserve grade can aid player development but it also demonstrates that we have an outstanding coaching team that can develop players fit for Super League. We wish Dave all the best for the rest of the 2016 season.”