Wigan confirm two new signings
Iain Thornley in action for Leigh
Wigan have signed centre Iain Thornley and Brazilian prop Ramon Silva on two-year deals, with the option of a third year.
Thornley, 30, returns to his hometown club seven years after leaving for rugby union club Sale Sharks. He arrives at the Warriors from relegated Super League side Leigh.
The centre or winger has made almost 200 career appearances for Wigan, Hull KR, Catalans Dragons and Leigh.
He said: “I’m made up. I’m really excited and I can’t wait to get started. Wigan were really keen and I was made up.
“It’s been a full circle for me. I started at Wigan when I was 11-year-old and so it’s great to be back and see familiar faces. Being a Wigan lad, I can’t wait to represent the badge and shirt again.
“My aim is to show what I can do and show why I’ve been signed. I want to come in and knuckle down in pre-season, do my best to get that starting spot and show what I can do on the pitch.”
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Brazilian prop on “dream” move to Wigan
Brazilian prop Silva, 20, arrives at Wigan from London Broncos. Furthermore, he was in Sao Paulo, Brazil and he moved to the UK with his parents when he was three-years-old.
Silva spent three years in London’s academy system where he played alongside his new Wigan team-mate Kai Pearce-Paul.
He said: “It’s the dream to sign for Wigan. I know a lot of people would do anything to get to where I am and have this opportunity. I’m very proud and thankful for the opportunity.
“My plan is to improve as much as I can and to strive to be a key player. I’m looking forward to meeting everyone and getting stuck in.
“I’m excited to make everyone proud – my family and friends in Brazil and all the Wigan fans here. I’d also like to say thank you to my parents, especially my dad. He’s helped me to get to where I am today.”
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Wigan coach delighted to sign duo
Warriors coach Matt Peet said: “Iain will bring competition across our backline.
“We believe his natural ability, combined with his determination, makes him a great fit for us. Personally, I am really excited to work with him.
“We have been tracking Ramon over the past couple of seasons and have been impressed by his work rate and physical attributes. We take pride in developing young players and feel that his character will be a great addition to the squad.”
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