Warrington Wolves look into more loan deals for youngsters

With the reserves competition scrapped for 2021 and dual registration not in operation – both due to Covid constraints – opportunities for fringe players to get much-needed minutes have narrowed.

The RFL have changed the rules on loan deals, halving the minimum length of a loan period from four weeks to two so clubs have more freedom to let players out on short-term deals.

Half-back Riley Dean has already left The Halliwell Jones Stadium temporarily, joining Championship side York City Knights on a season-long loan deal which includes a two-week recall option.

Riley Dean will spend the 2021 season on loan at York City Knights. Picture by SWPix.com

Keanan Brand and Samy Kibula are also spending 2021 away from the club – at Leigh Centurions and Newcastle Thunder respectively – head coach Steve Price says more loan deals for his young players are likely in the coming weeks.

“We’ll have a look at that,” he said.

“The opportunity came up for Riley as York unfortunately had an injury to one of their halves, so that guaranteed him to be a starting half.

“There were still a few halves ahead of him here so it was a good fit for both parties.

“Our main focus is getting through the next couple of weeks and see where we stand for Round One.

“After that, I’ll make a decision on who needs to get out and play some footy.

“There’s a number there who haven’t played for a long time, with what happened last year with the academy and reserve grade.

“It’s something we will look at as we approach the season.”