Wigan Warriors coach Shaun Wane has played down speculation linking half-back Matty Smith with a potential departure from the club.
With the Warriors re-signing Thomas Leuluai for 2017 and the return to fitness of Michael McIlorum following a long-term injury, talk has intensified online that Smith could be set to leave the DW Stadium – with St Helens mooted as a potential destination, although they are keen on Widnes captain Kevin Brown: as reported in League Express this week.
And Wane told Wigan Today that he’s happy with what he’s got – and competition for places is no bad thing.
“I’m happy with Matty, George, Sam, Jake and Micky – and the best will play,” Wane said. “We are a club where – if you’re a player who doesn’t like competition – we’re not for you.
“I know there’s talk among fans and in the media, but the players all understand it and they like it.
“I want everyone to be under pressure – that’s what brings the best out of them.”
There will be more from Wane online at TotalRL.com from today’s (Wednesday) pre-match press conference.
