“Players are on the market for the wrong reasons” – Super League Sporting Director struggling for signings

At this time in the season we start to see mid-season signings.

In 2022 there were some huge transfers mid-season such as Zak Hardaker’s move to Leeds Rhinos, Matt Dufty’s Warrington Wolves arrival and Toulouse Olympique bringing in Corey Norman and Daniel Alvaro.

Catalans Dragons are one club un the market. The French club started the season still wanting a prop and a centre after the departures of Dylan Napa, Dean Whare and Samisoni Langi. They had two quota spots open as consequence and have addressed the centre spot by signing Matt Ikuvalu which is yet to be confirmed fully but just needs a medical check. However, they still want a prop and have the money and the quota spot to make a big signing if a top NRL star becomes available.

Now their Sporting Director Neil McIlroy spoke to L’Independant about their search and a big problem with it.

“We have continued to search since November. There is a lack of quality players on the market which is really small between Australia and England.

“We often see that some players are on the market for the wrong reasons, between injury, behaviour or a drop in level. It is therefore necessary to evaluate all the avenues carefully.”

He also thinks the club is in a strong position under IMG’s proposals even though the club didn’t have a vote in the matter:

“We are well placed, but this system will motivate all those associated with this club to work even better.

“I am thinking of the stadium, the facilities and the infrastructure. But having a lot of French players on the teamsheet this season is a very good thing for IMG.

“The little ones are afraid for their own little garden and in a way that’s normal. But I also see that without IMG, we risk dying.

“For ten years, the crowds have stagnated. IMG is the world leader in this field and they decided to invest their skills in this sport.”