OLDHAM RLFC is delighted to confirm the capture of 18-years-old Wigan Warriors half-back LOGAN ASTLEY, initially on a two-weeks loan arrangement.
Logan, a Wigan boy, is highly-rated at the Warriors where he is full time, training every day with the club’s Super League stars and is said to be on the verge of getting his big break-through at his home-town club.
The talented youngster trained with the Oldham squad last night (Thursday) and is in contention for inclusion in Stuart Littler’s 21-man squad for Sunday’s Betfred League One clash with West Wales Raiders at the Vestacare Stadium, kick-off 3pm.
Roughyeds have publicly thanked the Warriors for allowing one of their bright, young stars to continue his development here and to get the opportunity of gaining vital experience playing against men at League One level.
Astley, who has come up through the ranks at Wigan, signed full-time early this year and started training on a daily basis with the club’s elite players.
He was quoted at the time as saying:
“It’s a big step-up from Academy, but I’m enjoying it and it’s definitely helping me to improve.
“My biggest goal this year is to make my debut and, from there, to try and stay in the team.
“I’m from Wigan, so I’ve always supported the team. I’ve been watching Lockers (Sean O’Loughlin) and now he’s my coach.”
Littler said:
“A big thank-you to everyone at Wigan for this – Kris Radlinski, Darrell Goulding and Co. We’ve a few friendships between the clubs and we’ve had dealings in the past.
“From our point of view at the Roughyeds, it’s gratifying to know that Wigan are more than happy for their lads to come here in order to gain experience.”
Oldham’s head coach has confirmed that he is no longer coach of the Irish national team, a position he has been proud to hold for nearly four years.
“They’ve decided to go in a different direction. That’s their decision. There’s nothing much else left for me to say.”
In a statement, Rugby League Ireland thanked Littler for his many years of service as player and head coach.
More news from Roughyeds . . . young prop Jamie Pye has left the club.
The former St Helens prop, who joined us to resurrect his career, has taken a new job which involves shift working and which means he can’t attend training sessions.
Said Littler:
“Our best wishes go with Jamie, who has always worked hard and been a fully committed member of the squad in his time with us,
“Sometimes we’re selfish in rugby and we expect everyone’s decision to favour the sport, but the reality isn’t always like that. We respect Jamie’s decision and we’ll certainly keeep in touch.”
Don’t forget the club catchwords for Sunday’s game with West Wales Raiders at the revamped and refurbished Vestacare Stadium: “Bring a mate and double the gate.”
