Swinton winger raring to go after freak accident

Swinton Lions winger Richard Lepori has signed a new deal for next season after his 2021 campaign was shortened by a freak gym accident.

Lepori, 30, will have his eye on earning a place in the Italy squad for the World Cup.

READ MORE: Richard Lepori on his Italian heritage, James Tedesco & playing at a World Cup

He said: “I’m really happy to be staying at the club for next season.

“Swinton Lions has a lot of good people in it, both on and off the field, and I know everyone involved is determined to get the club back to playing in the Championship.

“With the squad we are putting together, we will be challenging ourselves to bounce back.”

Lepori joined the Swinton Lions in June 2019 from rugby union and had a promising start to the 2021 season before the injury.

Swinton have stepped up their recruitment in recent weeks, announcing a raft of re-signings.

Rhodri Lloyd, Mike Butt and Lewis Hatton have been among the retentions so far.

They have also brought in Dan Abram and Jack Spencer from Oldham and Lewis Else from Widnes.

Coach Allan Coleman added: “Having Richard back for next year is massive for us because we missed him so much last season.

“He is such an important player for us. His talking and leadership qualities are brilliant, and he helps the staff so much with his constructive insight.

“It’s fantastic that following his injury, Richard’s fit and raring to go.”