Signing duo speak about playing under Super League legend at promotion favourites

Featherstone Rovers are making a serious play at promotion from the Championship this season and have added a number of players as well as appointing former Super League legend Sean Long.

Two of those signings are French pair Mathieu Cozza and Thomas Lacans with 22-year-old Cozza arriving from Catalans and half-back Lacans arriving after a spell with Newcastle Thunder.

At the time of his signing Lacans was praised a lot by St Helens playing legend and former Leeds Rhinos assistant coach Long, who commented on Rovers website about the youngster.

“Thomas has a very bright future ahead of him, we’re excited to see him develop over the coming season, he is already a talented player and showcased his abilities for Newcastle this year,” Long explained.

That praise has since been returned with both Lacans and Cozza referencing Long and his leadership.

“I’m enjoying it, I’m learning a lot and I’m looking forward to putting it all together on the field,” Lacans said. “I’ve not been coached by Sean previously but I obviously know his reputation as a player, for me to work with a halfback of that calibre is fantastic and I’m enjoying every minute.”

Cozza, 22, who plays in the forward pack, was also complimentary of his new boss as the pair settle into pre-season.

“We’ve settled in well, I’m enjoying my time here, the staff and players have been very welcoming.

“I’ve worked with Sean before with the France squad but to have him as head coach is brilliant, he sees the game in a different way, having only seen him as an assistant before, it’s great to see him leading the sessions and explaining what he wants from the playing group.”

Long had been assistant coach for France and took the role up in 2021 prior to the World Cup, but has been in his current role with Featherstone since October when he replaced Brian McDermott.