Wakefield Trinity star man Luke Gale has spoken honestly about how he thought his time in Super League, which has seen him represent Castleford Tigers, Hull FC and Leeds Rhinos, was over with the former Man of Steel winner having started the 2023 season off in the Championship.
Gale originally left Super League last year following his expiration of his contract from Hull FC. He agreed to join Keighley Cougars in the Championship for the 2023 season, however Mark Applegarth drafted him into the Wakefield ranks in their bid for survival.
Speaking to the BBC following his side’s victory over Warrington Wolves, the former Man of Steel said: “I honestly thought I’d played my last Super League game.”
“I was honestly content with that,” he added. “Then Wakefield come and I thought, ‘what a good story if we could actually stay up'”.
Luke Gale has been a revelation for the Trin since his arrival in May despite being hampered with injuries, namely to his groin and ankle, but in his limited appearances he has become a firm fan favourite.
He also spoke on the progress Wakefield have made in recent weeks, which has seen them win four of their last six matches.
“Yeah, there’s a long way to go, but I think we’re building week on week,” Gale said. “And as I said, I didn’t think I’d get another opportunity to play Super League.
He later exclaimed “I’m just proud of the boys and proud of the boys’ efforts and hopefully we’re on a bit of a march, you know?”
Luke Gale is one of several mid-season recruits Mark Applegarth has brought in. The list includes Will Dagger, who scored that famous drop goal in Golden Point to see of Wigan Warriors, Innes Senior, who scored four tries in the 42-6 win over Warrington Wolves last week and also Wakefield legend David Fifita returned to Belle Vue.
Speaking yesterday on Sky Sports ‘Rugby League Verdict’, the Big Bopper was keen to point out how Gale has helped Wakefield’s turn of form, even despite his injury problems. “Luke Gale has been great for us coming back now,” said Fifita. “His leadership, he’s helping Mason Lino find his form again.”
