Thomas Leuluai new deal to be 'sorted out in the next week'

While Sean O’Loughlin has announced he will retire this month, Kiwi Leuluai is keen to play on beyond his 36th birthday.

And Lam, who is also expected to stay on, reckons a deal could be completed within days.

“In regards to Tommy, he’s similar to Sean in that he’s been a part of this club for a long time and I’m quite confident he’ll get sorted out in the next week,” said Lam.

“His focus has been on him playing well and being successful rather than a contract.”

Jackson Hastings and Bevan French have recently been retained while Jai Field, who can play full-back and halfback, will further strengthen Wigan’s arsenal in 2021. Asked where they would all play, Lam said: “That’s the hard one, we’ll worry about that in February.”

Hastings, preparing for Thursday’s semi-final with Hull FC, says he has learned a lot from his halfback partner Leuluai.

“It’s so much easier having that voice that everyone listens to,” he said. “You don’t have to do as much talking.

“He plays like the general and I get to run around both sides of the field with Bev (French). We get all the raps for the tries and the assists but without Tommy none of that happens.

“I’ve learned so much off him and I’m hoping he does play on and helps us be successful again next year.”

O’Loughlin, who has made only six appearances so far this year, announced last Friday his intention to hang up his boots at the end of the season and is hoping to bow out on a high with a fifth Grand Final ring. “He was fit last week,” said Lam, offering no promises he’ll be picked. “We made a decision late to leave him out.

“He’s been training with us for the last three weeks, he’s been good to go since then.”

Lam, who is still assistant to Australia head coach Mal Meninga, says O’Loughlin’s coaching role will be finalised at the end of the season and has also revealed that his captain could have had his pick of the NRL clubs at the height of his career.

“I know for a fact that every NRL coach inquired about trying to get him over to play in their team in Australia,” he said.

“I know (Sydney Roosters coach) Trent Robinson regards him as one of the best players in rugby league he’s set his eyes on.

“I know that the Kangaroos, when we prep England, you’re always a bit more confident when Sean isn’t a part of that squad. As much as we hype him up here, the respect is worldwide.”

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