Steve Price dismisses reports of Ryan Atkins departure

Warrington Head Coach Steve Price has dismissed reports of long-serving centre Ryan Atkins leaving the club.

The two-time Challenge Cup winner made his debut for the Wolves in 2010 and has gone on to make over 250 appearances in primrose and blue, scoring 164 tries.

Atkins is off-contract at the end of the season and has found it difficult to feature consistently for the team, instead having to compete with Toby King, Bryson Goodwin and Jake Mamo for the two centre spots.

In addition, Luther Burrell is set to arrive from rugby union in the coming weeks, adding further doubt to the 33-year-old’s future at the club.

Reports circulating in recent days have suggested that Atkins is set for an immediate departure from the club, with a variety of top-flight clubs allegedly ready to swoop to acquire his services.

However, given the Yorkshire-born outside back is currently enjoying his testimonial year at the club, Price insists the speculation is far from the truth.

Speaking to the Warrington Guardian, he said: “He’s not going anywhere. He’s contracted to Warrington Wolves.

“I don’t know where that speculation has come from but he’s under contract for this year. Rhino plays a huge part in our plans for this year, so I don’t know where that’s started.”