Catalans confirm McIlorum signing

Catalans have signed hooker Michael McIlorum on a two-year deal after reaching an agreement with Wigan.

McIlorum, 29, has played his entire professional career with the Warriors and played for Dragons coach Steve McNamara for England during the 2013 World Cup.

McNamara said: “In signing Michael, we have brought to the club one of the fiercest competitors in Rugby League.

“Whilst he is widely recognized as a very good defensive player, his contribution in attack during the recent World Cup for Ireland showed another side to his game.

“We are delighted that Michael has chosen to join us and along with Paul Aiton and Alrix Da Costa, we now have real quality and depth in that department.”

Dragons CEO Christophe Jouffret added: “As required by our headcoach Steve McNamara when he arrived at the club, we continue to strengthen our pack and add depth to our squad with the signing of Michael.

“Our squad now reaches nearly 30 players, which allows us to apprehend this new season in a more comfortable way.

“On behalf of the Catalans Dragons club, I would like to thank his agent Andy Clarke and our friends from Wigan who have helped this transfer to happen despite the final two years on Michael’s contract.”

McIlorum is the second signing Catalans have made from Wigan this off-season, having previously moved for Lewis Tierney on a permanent deal after he ended the season in Perpignan.

Photo courtesy of SW Pix.