Championship head coach hails ‘massive coup’ after latest Super League recruit

Oldham head coach Sean Long has spoken about the signing of former Super League half-back Josh Drinkwater.

Drinkwater was a starter for Warrington Wolves in the most recent campaign and he was in the XIII as they made their way to a third-placed finish in the Super League regular season and the semi-finals of the play-offs.

The Australian has a huge amount of experience, with sides such as St George Illawarra Dragons, Catalans Dragons and Hull KR as well.

With the Catalan side, he won the 2018 Challenge Cup final, kicking four goals on their way to victory. He also played in Grand Final defeat in 2021 for the same side.

Now, after being a starter for one of the best teams in the country, he has joined promoted RFL Championship side Oldham RLFC.

Head coach delighted with signing of former Super League man

Speaking to club media, head coach Sean Long detailed his excitement at the signing, saying: “Really excited about Josh coming on board, you know, his record speaks for itself, played at the highest level in Super League.

“We’re really pleased that he’s joined Oldham, which is a massive coup for us.

“I like the halves playing on the ball. He’s smart. He’s got a great short kicking game as well

“They’re the improvements we wanted to play home last year, and it gives us competition for places.”

He also referred to his experience across his career, adding: “He’s been there, done that.

“He was unfortunate last year, I thought he played really well in the semi-final against Hull KR and he just landed short.

“Just his leadership, and I think he’ll bring a calming influence to our attack as well, so we’re not all running around like chickens at times.

“Like a quarterback, he’ll calm us down, and his kicking game’s really good as well – so yeah, unbelievable signing for us, and we’re made up.”