Wakefield Trinity's Connor Bailey moves to Newcastle Thunder on loan

The Tyneside club are one of five League 1 outfits who have applied to join the Championship next season, with a decision due on that process on Thursday (today) afternoon.

He started his career with Dewsbury-based amateur club Shaw Cross Sharks before signing professional terms with Trinity in 2019.

He made his Super League debut against Hull FC in September before making a further four appearances for Wakefield before the end of the prolonged Super League campaign.

“Newcastle are a club full of exciting young talent and a club heading in the right direction,” said Bailey, who is hoping to get plenty of game time in the north east.

“Having played against Thunder a few times before, when the opportunity came up to me I was absolutely thrilled and thought what a great chance it would be to help me develop, as a player and as a person.

“Thunder have great facilities and a loyal fan base up there and it’s a great privilege to get to play next season. I’m really wanting to make a name for myself and really kick off my career and I thought Thunder was the best place for that.”

Thunder Director of rugby Denis Betts said: “Connor has had a taste of Super League and has come through a good system at Wakefield and he is coming to us to develop by playing every week. He has a strong kicking game, is solid defensively, is a good organiser and he is hungry for success.

“I’m looking forward to seeing him prove his Super League credential with us next year.”

Fellow League 1 clubs, Barrow Raiders, Doncaster, Rochdale Hornets and Workington Town are also in the running for a second-tier spot.