Catalans Dragons forward makes Championship loan move

France World Cup hopeful Mathieu Cozza has joined Championship side Barrow on a one-month loan deal from Catalans Dragons.

The 22-year-old is comfortable playing at both prop and loose forward. He will fly into the country today and goes straight into contention for Sunday’s Championship trip to Workington Town.

Cozza made his Dragons debut in 2021 and has gone on to make four appearances in total.

He has played much of the season for Saint-Esteve XIII, Catalans’ feeder team, in the French Elite 1 Championship.

The club are hoping to secure a more permanent visa for Cozza, with the hope of retaining him for the remainder of the 2022 season.

The utility forward is hoping to stay in contention for a place in the France squad at the World Cup later this year. He joins fellow countryman Hakim Miloudi at the Raiders.

Barrow boss on Catalans Dragons youngster Mathieu Cozza

On the announcement, Barrow Raiders chairman Steve Neale said: “We have been in the market for a middle for much of the season.

“We are delighted to have captured a player of his quality. We cannot wait to welcome him to the Raiders ahead of this weekend’s game.”

Cozza will become the third Frenchman to pull on a Barrow jersey this season. He will follow in the footsteps of Miloudi and Morgan Escare.

Elsewhere in the Championship: Aston returns to Sheffield

Elsewhere in the Championship, Halifax half-back Cory Aston will return to fellow Championship club Sheffield Eagles on an initial three-week loan deal.

Eagles boss Mark Aston said: “We’re very happy to be bringing Cory back to the club.

“We know his qualities on the field. It’ll be great for him on a personal note to get to play in his home city in front of our loyal supporters at the OLP.

“He’ll be relishing the opportunity and he’ll add to our style of play, just as Tom Holmes and QLT have.”

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