Quote wigantoday.net
PAUL Deacon’s playing future with Wigan should be confirmed within the next few days.
The half-back has all-but agreed a new contract which will see him lace up the boots again in 2011.
Former Bradford skipper Deacon arrived at his home-town club 12 months ago on a one-year playing deal, with a coaching arrangement in place as well.
But after playing a key role in Wigan’s Grand Final assault he is confident he can still contribute to the team on the field, and has deferred a move into coaching until at least 2012.
He started pre-season training with the bulk of the first-team squad last Monday and an official announcement over his future is expected soon.
Deacon said: “It’s pretty-much sorted.
“It was a good end to the season for me, and hopefully I can keep injury-free and build on that next season.”
The 31-year-old is likely to form Wigan’s first-choice half-back combination next season, along with new-boy Brett Finch.
And he said: “I’ve only just met Finchy but he seems like a nice fella. Piggy (Mark Riddell) said he’s good lad and a bit of a joker, and I think that’ll be good for us, especially with Piggy going.
“He said he’ll fit in well.”
Karl Pryce’s future has not been confirmed, but it is understood he is close to agreeing a new one-year deal with Wigan.
He has already started pre-season training with the rest of the Wigan squad.
Meanwhile, the RFL has moved to reassure Wigan fans that the World Club Challenge against St George Illawarra Dragons will go ahead.
The English game’s governing body faced embarrassment when the Dragons raised doubts about the February 27 blockbuster going ahead – just hours after tickets had gone on sale.
Peter Doust, chief executive of the NRL champions, said they still had financial issues, and a pile-up of friendly fixtures, to resolve before they agree to take part in the annual battle between the champions.
“We would obviously like to be involved in what is a highly regarded event but there is no obligation on us to play,” he said. “At this stage, we are still trying to work around what is a highly complex set of circumstances but we are certainly not interested in going if we can’t meet the needs of our club.’’
Despite his comments, the RFL – which organises the game – has assured supporters there is no need to panic.
“We’re aware of the issues and there is ongoing dialogue with St George-Illawarra, as far as we can concerned it’s on,” a spokesman said.
Nearly 1,000 tickets were bought on Monday and more were sold yesterday. The spokesman added: “We’ve been delighted with the response from the fans.”
'"
