Off-contract Catalans back eager to play on in 2021

David Mead is determined to prolong his rugby league career beyond this season despite entering the final few months of his contract with Catalans.

The 31-year-old utility back has made 51 appearances across three seasons for the Dragons, helping them win the Challenge Cup in 2018.

Though he is open to offers from Super League and the NRL, a stay in Perpignan is the preferred option at this stage for the Papua New Guinea international.

“I would love to continue playing footy with the club,” Mead told Serious About RL. “If an opportunity comes up to re-register then I happily would grab it with open arms.

“It has been a great experience here at Catalans. The first year was pretty tough, particularly the transition from Australia to France.

“The language barrier amongst other things has been a considerable challenge but I took it all on and I have really enjoyed my time here so far.

“I have six months remaining of course but I am in no rush to leave anytime soon.

“For now my priority is finishing off this season and to get more game time.”

Arriving from the NRL at the start of 2018, Mead has rarely disappointed when called upon by the French outfit and featured at centre throughout their run to Wembley glory in his first season.

With the ability to play anywhere along the backline, the former Gold Coast speedster is a valuable asset for Steve McNamara and a lack of action in 2020 has left him itching to get back out on the pitch.

“Due to injuries, I have managed only the one game this season,” Mead explained. “I was due to return the week the competition was cancelled.

“That left me restless but it had to be done but now with the news of the Super League coming back, I can’t wait to get stuck in once again.

“Who better to return against than, arguably, the best team in the competition.”

Catalans face St Helens a week on Sunday (August 2nd) with the match at Headingley marking the return of Super League after a four-month hiatus.