Championship club set for signing as coach admits we didn’t see the best of departing star

Halifax Panthers have confirmed that Joe Arundel, formerly of Castleford Tigers, Hull FC and Wakefield Trinity, will leave the club immediately after one year with the Panthers.

Speaking on the matter, Head Coach Simon Grix has explained the decision as he admitted we didn’t see the best of Arundel in 2022:

“Unfortunately we didn’t see the best of Joe in 2022. He will say himself he didn’t transition well out of full time, which is difficult particularly for those that have known nothing different to the full time lifestyle. As a staff, we hold high standards and are clear on our expectations of our players, it’s a shame as we certainly hoped for a greater impact but sometimes it doesn’t work out with many factors in play.”

He also confirmed that the club will look to sign a replacement but not immediately:

On the topic of how this departure leaves his squad building for 2023 and beyond, Grix continued: “We’re not stressed at the minute but at the right time, likely after the friendlies and pecking orders are established elsewhere across the leagues, we will have a good look around to see what is available and likely add to our squad.”

What the future holds for Arundel remains to be seen.