Hodgson on new signings and youngsters progress

Vikings assistant coach Brett Hodgson says the Club’s new signings have added enthusiasm to pre-season training and a healthy competition for places in the squad.

Chris Bridge, Setaimata Sa and Corey Thompson have all arrived at the Select Security Stadium in the close season, and will soon be joined by latest recruit Chris Houston.

Hodgson said: “They’ve added enthusiasm. They’re all pushing to become a regular part of the squad. Chris Bridge has got skill that very few centre’s in the competition have got, and he’s shown how skilful he is and what elements he’s going to bring to our edges.

“Sa has got great presence. He’s a big boy, and people who run down his side will fear getting smashed.

“Corey is improving week to week and whether he comes in on the wing or at full back, time will tell. All the boys who we’ve got have improved the depth of the squad and they’re all pushing to be regular first team members.”

Thompson was the only new signing to feature in the Festive Derby against Warrington, and has been spending a lot of time in pre-season at full-back before the return of Rhys Hanbury.

Hodgson added: “Rhys is a very good player and we all know that. It’s healthy to have competition, not so Rhys fear for his position, but so players are pushing each other. He knows if he keeps his form up, he’ll keep his position.

“With Jack Owens we need depth at full back. Stef (Marsh) has been doing some training at full back and Olly (Ashall) has showed he can stand in if he needs. it’s good that we have three or four people to fill every position in the team.”

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