I think I saw it tweeted by Mathew Shaw but assumed it was a wind up.

If we are in for him one of French, Field or Smith is off (Smith I assume) but I just don’t see it in the next year.

Thanks Jon.This rumour has come from someone associated with the club.

The only place I've seen that rumour is on Twitter and looks to be a Hull FC fan on the wind up. Aside from someone to possibly provide more depth in the backrow, I don't think Wigan need to recruit at all for 2025.

With the wraps Peet continually gives to Farrimond I can't imagine us blocking his pathway with Mikey Lewis. French is tied down long term also. Non starter for me

As cover for Hampshire?

Welcome back pemps!!

I agree unless there is proposed player movement within the club at the end of the season.

Admittedly I’m not one of Bateman’s biggest fans however, with minimal thought I can think of several players who for me are/were far better than Bateman namely Andy Farrell, Liam Farrell, Hock, Fletcher, Betts, Tomkins, Hansen and Isa.
His first season in the nrl he was impressive but for me a fit athletic player but with very limited attacking abilities.

That would be my preferred route particularly if/when Nsemba and Walters are the second row pair.

I don't think I could include Isa and Tomkins (assume you mean Joel?) in your list, Itchy. I wouldn't dispute the others, though.

Joel's first spell puts him right in the mix. Phenomenal player pre union

I presume Itchy means Sam. If that is the case then I agree. I have not seen a better fullback at Wigan than Sam and I have watched this team for a long time.

Meeither mate but hes on about back rowers compared to Bateman so surely he means Joel

I thought Joel was great before his departure to union. For me his all round game was much better than Bateman.
I did hesitate before naming Isa but thought what does Bateman offer what Isa cannot do? Both fit, athletic and committed whilst both offer limited attacking options. That’s not criticism of either player but for me is a summary of both players abilities.

John Bateman was right up there IMO during his first spell for us. I wouldn’t have him above Betts, Hock or Liam Farrell but I would put him ahead of anyone else (in Superleague) in terms of his overall contribution. You could make a case for guys like Hoffman and Fletcher being better but they were only here for a short spell. I’d personally leave Andy Farrell out of it, with him being used usually at 13 and then that spell at prop.

Still doesn’t change my mind that we’ve had his best days now and we should (and will) stay well clear.