Does Jacques O’Neill transfer break the rules?

Castleford Tigers hooker Jacques O’Neill is one of the most well known players in the sport despite only making 29 appearances at first team level.

This is because the hooker appeared on Love Island last summer. To the surprise of many, O’Neill requested his release and was granted it last year to leave the Tigers and head over to the Villa.

He emerged as a potential early favourite to win the reality TV show but soon things went south.

Eventually he has returned to Castleford Tigers in 2023 but is yet to play a game and has now joined Sheffield Eagles on loan for the rest of the year.

This might surprise you given the deadline for transfers passed at the start of month.

However, with it being a loan move he is permitted to make this move but he will not be able to play for Castleford before the end of the season.

Thus, he will be a very handy signing for the Eagles.

“For me, it’s good to be here in a different environment and back playing rugby,” he said.

“I need to get back on the field, that’s the most important thing for me.

“I’ve played with Cory for a few years, Mark (Aston) is a great bloke and I’ve had some meetings with him.

“In my time right now, I think it’s the right place for me.”

Director of Rugby Aston added: “I’m delighted, we need some fresh blood and competition for places,”

“Jacques has certainly got potential, he’s played at Super League and everyone I’ve spoke to about him has said great things.

“We’re looking forward to seeing him in training and how he goes on the pitch when he is selected.

“He’s had a couple of years of tough stuff with injuries, now it’s time to get back to what he does best and what he loves – that’s playing rugby league.

“He’s excited, he’s committed to get his name back to where it was.

“He adds a bit of spice, he’s tough and uncompromising. He’s got a tough few weeks to get himself in condition to be challenging for a spot.”