Ex-Wigan Warriors flop Christian Wade has signed a new deal to remain with Newcastle Red Bulls for another year.
Wade joined the Red Bulls in December after a brief and disappointing spell in rugby league with the Cherry and Whites. The winger made just two appearances for Wigan and while he did manage to score two tries, he struggled to adapt to the 13-man code and after an error-ridden performance against Hull FC in July, he dropped out of Matt Peet’s fold and thinking.
He has fared better on his return to rugby union by all accounts despite scoring just two tries in five Prem games. However, he now sits just eight tries behind fellow former Wigan man Chris Ashton in the all-time Prem top try scorer list and he’ll be backing himself to surpass that tally of 101 tries next season.
Wade, who spent time in the NFL with Buffalo Bills earlier in his career, also counts Wasps, Gloucester and Racing 92 as former clubs.
“I’m really excited to continue this journey with Newcastle Red Bulls,” Wade said. “From the moment I arrived here I’ve loved the energy around the club and the support from our fans.
“My wife has been part of this journey with me long before the NFL, and we both really enjoy the lifestyle here in Newcastle. It’s a great place for us, on and off the field.
“I’m looking forward to the challenge ahead, and bringing my experience, leadership and personality to help make this team the best it can be.”
Red Bulls’ sporting general manager Neil McIlroy said: “Christian has been a really positive influence on the squad since his arrival in December, and the way he looks after himself is an example to all players.
“He has been unlucky with a couple of injuries which were outside of his control, but in the games he has played he has made plenty of positive contributions.
“For such a renowned finisher he is very unselfish in the way he goes about his work, and he has been brilliant in sharing his experience with our younger players.
“He still has a big contribution to make for us as we look to advance this club, and I’m really happy that he has agreed to another season.”
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