The rumour mill continues to do a merry-go-round as the 2021 season dawns upon us, but some of those players that have moved to different clubs have extra motivation.
Here are six recruits that have a point to prove this year.
Mike McMeeken – Catalans Dragons
After becoming one of Castleford’s most potent attacking outlets following his move from London in 2015, McMeeken has been in and out of form in recent seasons. With his contract coming to an end, a fresh start in the south of France was perhaps necessary for the back-rower to try and regain the form that earned him an England call-up in 2017.
Josh Jones – Huddersfield Giants
Much was made of Josh Jones’ move to Hull FC ahead of the 2020 season; a big-money signing from Salford, the forward was expected to have a big impact at the KCOM Stadium. Instead, that fell rather flat and Jones has now linked up with former boss Ian Watson at Huddersfield.
Josh Reynolds – Hull FC
Following a less-than successful spell at Wests Tigers in the NRL, former Origin star Josh Reynolds has moved halfway across the world in a bid to reignite his rugby league career. Aged 31, the halfback perhaps doesn’t have many years left, but he could become instrumental for the Airlie Birds if playing to his potential.
Ryan Hall – Hull KR
Ryan Hall is back in Super League after a dismal time in the NRL with Sydney Roosters. The powerful winger only just made it into double figures for appearances, but has since linked up with former Leeds boss Tony Smith at Hull KR. Aged 33, Hall won’t be on the field for much longer so it will be interesting to see how he turns out for Rovers.
Morgan Escare – Salford Red Devils
A few years ago, Morgan Escare was the best thing since sliced bread. Unfortunately, the fullback found himself on the fringes of both the Catalans and then the Wigan squad before a loan move to Wakefield in 2019 aimed to kickstart his career. A fresh start at Salford may be what the French international needs to find that early-career form.
Greg Inglis – Warrington Wolves
He retired from rugby league in 2019, but Greg Inglis couldn’t turn down a lucrative move to Warrington in 2021. Aged 33 and with a number of bad injuries perhaps still haunting him, it will be interesting to see how “G.I.” fares.
