COACHES WON’T LET THE CATALANS OUT OF THE BAG OVER TOMKINS

Wane and McNamara quiet on speculation Warriors star Sam is heading off to France

RIVAL coaches Shaun Wane and Steve McNamara have refused to be drawn on the growing belief that Sam Tomkins is Catalans-bound for 2019.

Sources on both sides of the Channel suggest this season could be the last in a Wigan shirt for the former England full-back (left), who will face the Dragons in Perpignan today. Tomkins is out of contract at the end of the campaign, although the Warriors do have a further year’s option if they want to take it up.

A decision is expected in coming weeks, although Wane insisted Tomkins remains part of his plans unless chairman Ian Lenagan or general manager Kris Radlinski tell him otherwise. Wane said: “No question – unless I get told something different by Rads then he’s my player and we’ll work with him every week.

“Sam’s a great player and lots of teams are going to be looking at him.

“I’ve coached him for many years but I’ve got the players I’ve got and I’m looking after them, making sure we get two points every week, and we’re going well.”

Opposition boss McNamara was similar coy about the Tomkins speculation yesterday.

He said: “We’ll always look to add quality players to our group.

“I’m not saying that’s Sam whatsoever, but over a period of time we’ve brought Michael McIlorum and David Mead who have been two of our high-profile signings.

“There are lots of players who are coming off contract at the end of the year and a lot of players have been mentioned.

“It’s not something I’m prepared to speak about right now, not one particular player.”

Wane did admit that it will be strange to come up against his former hooker McIlorum in Perpignan.

Wane added: “It’s sad for me. I’m looking forward to seeing him but gutted we’re playing against him.”