Leeds Rhinos signing has no regrets about leaving Wigan Warriors

Leeds Rhinos have made plenty of signings for the 2023 season some of which are for the now but plenty of them are not only for now but also for the future as they signed plenty of young British players with Championship experience.

One of those is former Wigan Warriors man James McDonnell who left the Warriors for Leeds after spending the year mostly on loan at Leigh Leopards.

This week, after playing for Ireland in the Rugby League World Cup, he started his pre-season with the Rhinos.

Speaking to the club’s YouTube channel, he enjoyed his first session despite a few nerves:

“I just started this week, it was good to get in and meet all the lads. They’re all nice.

“A few nerves yeah, but luckily enough I know a few lads through the Ireland set ups and England set ups in my youth.

“Bentley and Richie, I’ve met them at the Ireland camp and guys like Sam Walters I’ve met them already. I played against Jarrod and Sam at the academy levels when they were at Widnes.”

He also revealed that he has no regrets about leaving Wigan:

“I’ve not really looked back since I made the decision, I know it is going to be a great decision for me. The coaching staff are top notch, they’ve been great already. I feel like I will slot in nicely at the club.”

When asked about what he will bring the Rhinos, he said: “Effort that is what I based my game on. I’m not one for the flashy stuff more the one percents.”

“I just want to get firing on all cylinders, and get ready for round one. I know we have quite a few pre-season games, I want a full year under my belt and play Super League.”