STUART Littler has named his squad numbers for the upcoming season with eight of our new signings for 2023 included in the first 17.
Taking the number 3 shirt is Connor Carr who returns on a season long loan from Huddersfield Giants, as announced by the club earlier.
The numbers assigned to our other new recruits are as follows: Gregg McNally (1), Patrick Ah Van (2), Lewis Sheridan (7), Matty Wilkinson (9), Deane Meadows (10), Zac Baker (12) and Jack Blagbrough (17), Jordan Paga (18), Sam Bardsley (21), Ellis Keppel (24), George Hirst (25) and Jenson Hamilton (26).
Those who have retained their numbers from last year are Martyn Ridyard (6), Luke Nelmes (8), Emmerson Whittel (13), Sean Slater (14) and James Thornton (16).
Head coach Stuart Littler is keen to play down the significance of the numbers, though, and insisted nothing should be read into the numbers,
“Things change every week. The picture changes all the time with training and what the lads do on the field,” he said.
“I know people look into them and like the old traditional 1-17 as a squad but, to me, the numbers don’t matter.
“Kian Morgan was number 23 last year, and he got the Young Player of the Year. The numbers give us a guide, but only actions on the field will determine those starting positions.”
The club can also confirm the release of Joe Taira, whose signing was announced on Christmas Day, by mutual agreement.
Said Littler:
“He’s tried his best, but he’s got an injury which is also affecting his work away from rugby.
“The lads all have jobs outside of rugby and if something starts affecting your ability to work and provide for your family, then decisions have to be made.
“Joe has come to us with the decision and we understand it. He has our support, best wishes and our thanks for the time and effort he has put into the club.”
Taira featured in our Law Cup victory over Rochdale Hornets last month and the club would like to thank Joe for his efforts and wish him best for the future.
Squad numbers in full:
1, Gregg McNally; 2, Patrick Ah Van; 3, Connor Carr; 4, Kian Morgan; 5, Joe Hartley; 6, Martyn Ridyard; 7, Lewis Sheridan; 8, Luke Nelmes; 9, Matty Wilkinson; 10, Deane Meadows; 11, Ethan Ferry; 12, Zac Baker; 13, Emmerson Whittel; 14, Sean Slater; 15, Dom Newton; 16 James Thornton; 17, Jack Blagbrough; 18, Jordan Paga; 19, Callum Cameron; 20, Tommy Brierley; 21, Sam Bardsley; 22, Calvin Wellington; 23, Billy Yarrow; 24, Ellis Keppel; 25 George Hirst; 26, Jenson Hamilton
