No Bridge too far as Oldham star signs new one-year deal

IT’S a double celebration for Danny Bridge and Oldham after the star second-rower signed a new one-year deal to remain with the club and then received a call-up to the Ireland squad for the upcoming World Cup Qualifiers.

Roughyeds fought off tough competition from rival clubs to retain Bridge, who has scored 16 tries in 36 appearances over two seasons.

“There were a few clubs chasing him, but we are delighted to announce that Danny is staying here,” said Oldham chairman Chris Hamilton. “It’s good to have him on board again which means we’ll retain our top second-row pairing of Bridge and Langtree.”

These sentiments were echoed by coach Matt Diskin, who took over from Scott Naylor after the club’s promotion to the Betfred Championship.

“Danny was one of the first players I wanted to re-sign when Chris and I went through the squad shortly after my arrival at the club,” he said.

“He’s a very talented player whom I was fortunate to work with at Bradford at the back end of my playing career.

“He’s a leader and he’ll be up there with Langers among the top five second-rowers in the Championship.”

The good news continued for Bridge when it was confirmed that he will be part of the 22-man Ireland squad selected by Swinton boss Stuart Naylor for the upcoming internationals against Spain and Italy.

Bridge will be joined by former Roughyeds team-mate Zack McComb in the squad, which also includes Toronto Wolfpack hooker Bob Beswick, Wakefield’s George King and Salford Red Devils forward Tyrone McCarthy.