Quote: The_Enforcer "So The Tomkins deal was only finalised last week yet Wigan had already put the deal in place with Matty Bowen?
What would of happened if the Tomkins deal hadn't come off?
The club even told one supporter that the first contact they had with NZW was 10 days ago.
Seems like there may be a lot of spin coming out of our club as well!!'"
No they didn't. If you listen to IL's interview on Wigan TV he stated the deal to sell Sam to NZ was only SIGNED 10 days ago after extensive negotiations and Sam deciding the time was right to test himself at the highest level. He went on to say if a player treats the club with dignity and respect the club will offer the same to the player. We also have the same contractual agreement as was inserted with Mossop. IF either player returns to SL Wigan have first option to sign them at an agreed salary. IF they don't return to SL i hope they go on to have great careers in the NRL and in Sam's case don't end up in union.
Bowen will be a fantastic signing, he offers similar attributes to Sam in attack and is superior in defence. He is vastly experienced and will offer a huge amount behind the scenes as well as on the pitch. If his fitness is a little suspect i would imagine the plan is to give Tierney and/or Hampshire a fair number of games anyway so even if fully fit wouldn't play every game.
As for describing him as 'marquee'. Why not. He's one of the top 5 full backs in RL. For those who think that's all spin ask yourself this. If Mathers was still our full back would you consider Bowen to be a marquee signing? I think most would.