Jacques O’Neill opens up on shock move to new club

Castleford Tigers hooker Jacques O’Neill has shocked everyone by joining a new club.

O’Neill may have only played 29 games at first team level but he is one of the most well known rugby league players in the country.

This because he shocked the world last year when he elected to request his release from Castleford to go on ITV’s reality TV hit Love Island.

There he was well liked and an early favourite to win the competition but eventually left of his own accord.

After a year of championing mental health using his new found platform to do so, O’Neill returned to Castleford but has now left the club on loan to join Sheffield Eagles on a two week loan that is rolling to the end of the season meaning it is likely he will see out the season with the Eagles.

O’Neill has now spoken about the shock move that he hopes will pave the way back to Super League.

“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.”