GATESHEAD Thunder have received a timely boost ahead of tomorrow’s clash against Oldham with the signing of prop forward Clarke Thompson.
Thunder entertain the Roughyeds at the International Stadium with Thompson likely to start after Director of Rugby Chris Hood swooped to capture the youngster’s signature.
The 19-year-old arrives on a dual registration deal from parent club Castleford and will again link up with fellow Tigers team-mate Jonny Payne.
However, the stay of both will be short as they will return to the Superleague giants to fulfil their commitments in the under- 20 competition – currently on hold due to the new Rugby League Nines competition taking place.
Thunder chief Hood said: “We are delighted Clarke has signed dual registration with us.
“As always we are very grateful to Steve Gill (Castleford head of youth development) and Castleford Tigers for their assistance.
“After speaking to Steve a number of times about Clarke, he is very highly recommended and they feel he has the potential to do very well for the Tigers. Both players are not playing for Castleford in the nines competition, and the Tigers are wanting both players to maintain their match fitness before they return for the culmination of the under-20s tournament.
“If it works out for everyone involved, we would be delighted to welcome the players back, and thus maintain the great relationship we have with Castleford.”
Steve Gill of Castleford added: “Clarke could be without a game for up to five weeks, so we have taken steps to make sure he keeps his match fitness before we start back with the under-20s in July. This will also give us chance to monitor Clarke against experienced opposition.
“Both Clarke and Jonathan have had a two week break from the under-20s and we are grateful Gateshead have given the young guys an opportunity to play in their first grade.”
Thunder, who gave a credible showing against Doncaster last week, hope to go a step further against an Oldham side still to win away from home this season.
However, tomorrow’s visitors have been acquiring Superleague youngsters of their own with Leeds Rhinos duo Danny Bravo and Callum Casey joining on loan.
