Thompson the first to sign for new Wigan side

THE newly-formed Wigan Warriors Women’s team has made England international Rachel Thompson their first signing ahead of the 2018 Women’s Super League season.

Comfortable at centre or halfback, Thompson was part of the national side that recently competed in the World Cup in Australia.

The 22-year-old has previously played for Leigh Miners Rangers and Thatto Heath, and Wigan coach Amanda Wilkinson was delighted at securing her signature.

“It’s a huge boost for us to get someone of Rachel’s calibre on board so early on,” said Wilkinson.

“It’s very early days for us as a team, but this is a huge signal of intent. Because of her commitments with England, Rachel was only able to make one of our recent trial sessions, but you could literally see the impact she had on the team.

“Everyone raised their game and it’s important we have quality players like Rachel on board to help us develop as a team.”

The remainder of the squad is set to be announced early in the new year, but Thompson is confident she will be part of a competitive side.

“It really is an honour to be the first player to sign for the Wigan Warriors Women’s team,” she said.

“I’ve been really impressed with the standard and the professionalism of both the players and staff. You can tell just how seriously Wigan are taking this and it was an easy decision to sign.

“Amanda has brought a talented group together and, with the right coaching, I think we can really develop and become a force to be reckoned with. I’m really excited about what the future holds and can’t wait to get started now.”

Meanwhile, Toulouse have signed former Wigan forward Eddy Pettybourne for their upcoming Championship campaign.

The 29-year-old, who featured for the United States at the World Cup last month, becomes Toulouse’s final signing for their second season in the Championship and arrives following a spell with Gold Coast Titans in the NRL.

“I am very excited about joining Toulouse,” Pettybourne said. “I feel really grateful for this opportunity that has been given to me.”

LEEDS head coach Brian McDermott says he would be interested in the England job if it becomes available.

Wayne Bennett led the national side to their first World Cup final for 22 years last month, but his contract with the RFL has now expired. Asked if he would be interested if approached about the England job, McDermott (left) replied: “Yes. I’m cool, I’m at ease with coaching Leeds. I love coaching Leeds and at no stage would I ever chase that job - I don’t think its a job you chase, actually.

“If I was to get the job I’d want to do it my way, which wouldn’t be too radical. If it becomes available I’m certainly up for that.”