Michael McIlorum to play on in 2024 as Catalans Dragons loan French international to Wakefield Trinity

England international hooker Michael McIlorum has signed a new one-year contract with Super League leaders Catalans Dragons.

The 35-year-old has put pen to paper on a new deal that will keep him in the south of France until the end of the 2024 campaign.

McIlorum has made 11 appearances for the Dragons since arriving in Perpignan from Wigan in 2018, helping Steve McNamara’s side win the Challenge Cup in his first season with the club.

The veteran hooker will combine his playing duties alongside coaching next season with the reserves and juniors as part of his career change plan before the end of his playing career.

On his new deal, McIlorum said: “Thank you to the players, the staff, Bernard and the fans for your continued support.

“In the end, it was an easy decision to stay for another season. I hope we can keep the momentum going this season and finish on a high.”

McIlorum came through the ranks at Wigan, winning two Super League Grand Finals and two Challenge Cups with the Warriors.

The Leeds-born dummy half has played in four World Cups – two for England and two for Ireland.

Catalans coach Steve McNamara added: “Micky McIlorum is in a great place physically and mentally and is playing as well as at any stage in his career.

“He is simply getting better with age and we had no hesitation in agreeing to a new one-year deal.”

Catalans Dragons loan youngster to fellow Super League side Wakefield Trinity

The Super League table toppers have loaned young half-back or hooker Ugo Tison to Wakefield Trinity on a one-month loan deal.

Tison has made three appearances for the Dragons since making his first team debut last season.

The 22-year-old made his international debut for France earlier this year in their 64-0 mid-season defeat to England in Warrington.

Wakefield coach Mark Applegarth said: “I am really pleased that we have been able to get Ugo on board.

“With Morgan Smith out for the season and a couple of lads returning from injuries we felt it was important to bring in some cover in the hooker and half position in the short-term .

“I am looking forward to working with him over the next month.”

Tison added: “I’m happy to be here, I hope we will win as many games as possible. I understand that I need to train hard and make a positive impact on the pitch.

“I feel that I am a simple player, priding myself on good vision and solid defence. I hope my visit will be positive for Wakefield.”

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