RL Today: Update on Tom Johnstone & latest LRL Podcast
Tom Johnstone on the move?
Wakefield winger Tom Johnstone has signed a multi-year deal to join Catalans from 2023. (Rugby League Live).
Rugby League Live revealed last week that Johnstone was in advanced talks with the club and that a deal was likely to be finalised. That has now taken place, with the England international set to be one of the highest-profile movers ahead of the 2023 season.
Matt Peet distances himself from Josh Charnley links
Wigan Head Coach Matt Peet has distanced the club from rumours linking winger Josh Charnley with a return to the club. (Manchester Evening News).
Peet told Manchester Evening News: “I like Josh. Good player, good lad but I’m not sure it’s something we’d be looking at. I hope he gets sorted.”
Frankie Halton on adjustment to full-time rugby
Hull KR forward Frankie Halton has credited Tony Smith and his teammates for helping him adjust to a full-time environment. (Hull Live).
Halton told Hull Live: “I’m really enjoying it, being full-time. All the players and coaches have been really good to me, and it’s a fantastic club to be a part of at the moment.
“Tony and the three backroom staff members have all had a hand in my progression so far, and I’m grateful they allowed me to take my chance and get some game time at Super League level, and I’m ready to get back out on the pitch this weekend and add some fresh legs into the side.”
Lee Briers on dealing with grief
Wigan assistant coach Lee Briers says he tells everyone to speak up about things, as part of Super League’s Tackle the Tough Stuff campaign. (St Helens Star).
Briers told St Helens Star:“I tell people, young people, friends, players – speak about stuff – don’t let it eat you up.
“As much as it is hard to talk, it is also OK to talk and show emotion. I am fine getting upset and I don’t care who I get upset in front of.”
Whitehaven unveil Summer Bash shirt
Whitehaven have revealed the shirt they will be wearing at this year’s Summer Bash.
Jonty Gorley’s men will take on Cumbrian rivals Workington at Headingley on 31st July.
Whitehaven Rugby League are delighted to announce the @APXSports shirt we will be wearing as the Summer Bash heads to the world famous Headingley Stadium for this first time.
➡️ https://t.co/iUtaFWGh5p#WeareHaven pic.twitter.com/xfnhvgSxWW
— Whitehaven Rugby League (@OfficialHavenRl) May 18, 2022
Love Rugby League Podcast
Tackle the Tough Stuff Round returns this weekend in Super League.
This week, host George Riley and deputy editor Drew Darbyshire speak with Paul Wood, Peter Mata’utia and Elijah Taylor about Tackle the Tough Stuff.
Birthdays
Former New Zealand international Shane Horo turns 62 today. (19th May).
Also celebrating; former Australia international Andrew Johns (48), former Catalans forward Olivier Elima (39), former Leigh winger Adam Higson (35), Melbourne forward Felise Kaufusi (30) and Hunslet forward Ethan O’Hanlon (21).
Trivia
Tom Johnstone made his Super League debut for Wakefield in 2015.