HEAD coach Adrian Lam hopes to boost his preparations for the new Betfred Championship campaign by adding another of Leigh’s overseas captures to his pre-season training squad.

NRL Grand Final winner John Asiata is due to land this week to link up with recent arrivals Tom Amone and Nene Macdonald. Ata Hingano and Caleb Aekins had previously touched down in the UK before Christmas.

And Lam is excited by the prospect of ex-Wests Tiger Amone and former Canterbury Bulldog Asiata working in tandem.

“Tom probably still has a bit of jet lag in him but he is enjoying being here,” said Lam. “He thinks there is a good vibe within the group and is feeling happy.

“It will take him a few weeks to settle in but once he does he will be a completely different beast in the Championship. I am sure the Leigh fans will love him as the season unfolds

“It has been hard work bringing in the international players but we are looking forward to having him and Tom here now. John will certainly give us some extra firepower through the middle.”

It is doubtful either will feature when Centurions travel to St Helens for Alex Walmsley’s testimonial game on Friday, January 21. However, by then, Lam hopes there will have been a couple more additions to his squad.

“We are travelling well enough to make sure we get a strong side out, albeit making sure we stay away from coronavirus,” he added.

“We are doing our best to get through this period. I know some clubs are struggling so it could be another tough year for everyone.

“We are trying to manage the process to make sure we don’t get hit hard. Unfortunately, who knows what is round the corner.”

Half back Ben Reynolds could be one to feature against the reigning Super League champions. He played only 11-times for Centurions last season before a knee injury ended his campaign.

“Ben is getting better every week,” said Lam. “It is looking promising and he is working hard to be ready for that game.

“I need to see him play in these tougher games and f he keeps pushing hard like he is now I can’t see any reason why he shouldn’t play.”

The uncertainty caused by the current surge in Covid-19 cases throughout the country has scuppered a planned training camp in Newcastle.

And that means the announcement of Leigh’s captain for 2022 will be delayed until closer to the opening league game with Whitehaven on Sunday, January 30.

The fixture had been due to take place on January 29 and has been moved because of stadium availability issues despite an appeal by the Cumbrians’ to the RFL

*Leigh legend Martyn Ridyard has been named captain of League One outfit Oldham. The 35-year-old has yet to play for Stuart Littler’s side after moving from Swinton Lions at the end of last season.