Leigh Centurions’ Jayden Hatton leaves the club without playing a game

Leigh Centurions’ new signing Jayden Hatton has left the club without playing a game.

Hatton was initially signed from the Widnes Vikings in the off-season as part of the club’s revival under new head coach Adrian Lam.

However, Leigh released this short statement tonight:

“Leigh Centurions can confirm that Jayden Hatton has asked to be released from his contract with the club to pursue opportunities outside the sport.

“Jayden leaves with our best wishes for the future.”

The Centurions themselves are aiming for promotion from the Championship in 2022 and have remained full-time as a result – one of only two sides to do so in the second tier alongside Newcastle Thunder.

Hayden had left Widnes for Leigh in a bid to pursue a career in full-time rugby league.

At the time of his signing in late 2021, head of rugby Chris Chester said this about Hatton: “Jayden also shows what we are trying to do with our recruitment. We are not just planning for next year but the years after that when we aim to be in the Super League. That both players see Leigh Centurions as the best club to further their careers is another positive indicator in what we are trying to do.

“Jayden wanted to back himself and play in a full-time environment and I see that as a very positive sign. He’s got confidence in himself and I’m looking forward to seeing him blossom in a Leigh Centurions jersey.”

Leigh have tonight announced the signing of youngster James McDonnell from Wigan Warriors on a month’s loan – perhaps as a direct replacement for Hatton.