Super League outfit Crusaders claim Mike Philips considering code switch – Rugby news
Wrexham based Super League team, Crusaders, have entered the race to sign Welsh international scrum half Mike Phillips to strengthen their squad. Mike Phillips does not play Super League but is considering a code switch according
to Crusader sources. Club Official have confirmed their initial contact with the Ospreys scrum half and disclosed this to a reporter of large daily newspaper
Crusaders are currently at bottom of the Super League table with just four points in the season so far. Crusaders have won only four of the 15 games they have played in the season.
The club has claimed that the Welsh international Philips is seriously considering switching codes and joining Crusaders to start his Rugby League career. The claim by the Crusaders came as a surprise, particularly as the rugby
union player is reported in a move to French Top 14 side Bayonne.
In addition to this, Bayonne rivals Stade Francais have also shown their interest in signing the Welsh international.
The 28-year-old Philips made his professional rugby debut for Llanelli Scarlets in 2002. He remained there for three seasons but failed to become a regular member of the team. Most of his 51 appearances were as substitute and he scored 56 points for them.
In 2005, Philips joined Cardiff Blues in a bid to become the first choice scrum half. He remained with the Blues for two season making 45 appearances and scoring 25 points for them.
Wales born, Philips joined Ospreys at the start of the 2007/08 season. He has so far played 60 games for Ospreys in both domestic and European competitions including the 14 games during the 2010/11 Magners League.
Welsh international scrum half has made 51 international appearances since his debut in 2003.
Crusader official has expressed hopes that Philips can adjust to the new code. The official has termed him to be “well-suited to rugby league.” He further added that Philips has skills and ability to perform in the 13-man code.
He confirmed that, “We have put the feelers out to his representative and he is considering an offer from us.”
The club’s claim cannot be overruled easily, particularly as they have already acquired the services of Gareth Thomas. Thomas, the former Welsh international captain joined with the Crusaders during 2010.
Crusaders’ officials further added, “We feel that more players should be encouraged to follow in his [Thomas'] footsteps. We are looking to build something special up here in north Wales both as a successful team on the field
and to create a strong business model and a club that the fans can be proud of.”
Ospreys head coach Scott Johnson has already expressed his consent of letting the Welsh international scrum half go if he decides to leave.
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