This isn't about Sean O'Loughlin. He's still our best player as it stands and is currently in the team so there's nothing to talk about on that subject.

Joel re-signing is terrific and makes our 2nd row look very strong again. With Tautai coming in as well, it gives us the added size we were looking for on the edges of our pack. Both have a fair bit of skill as well.

Me neither. I think he needs a good few months off, I personally wouldnt play him until the playoffs at the earliest and only then if hes ready

hes too important to the team

Leuluai isnt getting a game because he is injured, has been since the World Cup really. I think he had an operation a few weeks ago too. When fit he is a definite starter for NZ Warriors.

I hope he still has [ithat[/i speed, i.e that Wembley try and that Wakefield ( the infamous Amos Roberts knee injuring match)

just finished watching the interview on Wigan Tv was a good interview and not just a 30 second video, but two thing it looks as if he has lost a bit of size and put some weight on (chubby face) and he looked as if he was struggling with his back on a few occasions.

Oxford United will be gutted.

Would we really have played him against Widnes in a midweek game after also playing him against Cas on Friday if that was the case? I doubt it

Just got back from the match and I am over the moon with this.

Really well done by the club at half time. Red carpet, table, contract to sign.

IL walks on, then it's announced and on walks Joel.

Huge cheers. Then it's announced he joins now. Even bigger cheers. We obviously didn't know he has few more weeks rehab for the back but who cares, a great bit of stage management by the club.

Made up with this and a fantastic way to announce it too! Can't wait to see him back in a Wigan shirt

Great news, just as long as it's at second row and not centre, which is surely the case seeing as he was handed the 11 shirt on pitch. He'll have to get fit quick and earn it, as I thought that shirt had Batemans name all over it. Welcome back JT!!

and dont forget Joels not a bad centre either....might be the kick up the bum Goulding needs

and a great coup by the club announcing it this was as opposed to a pres conference, or an Observer exclusive. The first time anyone knew about it.....unless you read twitter an hour earlier? or was that a rumour because hes been spotted in Pemberton earlier?