Former Hull FC man reveals desire to play with “quality players like Sam Tomkins” triggered move

Catalans Dragons have recruited on a lesser scale than many this season with just five new faces arriving at the Gilbert Brutus compared to far more heading in the other direction.

One of those who has signed and brings both NRL and Super League experience is Manu Ma’u who signed from Hull FC and will join a forward pack that has lost the likes of Gil Dudson and Sam Kasiano.

The above trio were also joined in leaving to Warrington by playmaker Josh Drinkwater but the likes of Ma’u and Sydney Roosters pair Siosiua Taukeiaho and Adam Keighran have bolstered the French side.

Ma’u has given his first interview as a Dragon on the club’s Youtube channel, and has revealed that quality of the French outfit, including two particular players, encouraged him to make the move.

“I came to play alongside some quality players like Sam Tomkins and Michael Mac, all the other French internationals too.

“I feel like I could finish strong here and finish my career here and hopefully on a high.”

Ma’u revealed that the England stars were key to his signing before dropping the bombshell that this could be his last dance with the 34-year-old having signed a two-year deal upon arrival.

Speaking about one of the new signings Ma’u recalled their shared experience playing for Tonga on the international scene and was hopeful that the pair could form a relationship in the forward pack.

“I knew Siua, we played together for Tonga back in 2019. I was excited when I heard he was coming over.

“Expectations for myself are just to play good footy and add to what is already a quality team.”