Four potential homes for Josh Jones after rugby union exit

   13/01/2016

Today’s big news in Rugby League involves former St Helens centre Josh Jones, who has left rugby union side Exeter with immediate effect:

With Jones heading back home and back to the north after citing family reasons as the reason for his Exeter exit, it opens up the very realistic possibility of him becoming a Rugby League player again in time for the 2016 season. But where could he go? Here’s four potential options for Jones next season.

Huddersfield
The obvious link when news of Jones’ departure from rugby union was announced was Huddersfield. With Brett Ferres leaving and heading for Leeds it means the Giants could do with something extra in the back-row – and Jones can also play centre, meaning someone like Joe Wardle could move into the pack like he did in 2015.

Salford
Salford are slightly better stocked than Huddersfield for forwards, but that doesn’t mean they wouldn’t be interested in someone of Jones’ quality. Red Devils coach Ian Watson told League Express this week that they had an eye on the market if anything developed – if the prospect of Jones joining them became a possibility, one would think they would take it seriously.

St Helens
There’s an obvious link back to former club St Helens – but one stumbling block could be that the Saints have already done a fair chunk of recruitment since Jones’ departure. The likes of Dominique Peyroux, Lama Tasi, Theo Fages and Jack Owens have all come through the door for 2016 – so is there even room for Jones?

Wigan
This may seem a far-fetched option, but could Wigan fit the bill for Jones? You could argue they’re still marginally light in terms of outside backs, and with Jones seeking a return closer to home, Wigan could be a smart fit – given how it’s just over the ‘lump’ from St Helens. It’s a move that would cause a few waves amongst Super League fans, that’s for sure.