Newcastle Re-signs England A Full-Back Josh Hodge from Exeter
Newcastle Red Bulls have announced the re-signing of Josh Hodge, a talented full-back previously with Exeter. This move marks an important development for the club, with Hodge returning to his roots as a graduate of the Newcastle academy.
Josh Hodge’s Journey
Hodge has made a significant impact in his rugby career. He has scored 29 tries in 89 appearances for Exeter Chiefs. His talent has been recognized at the international level, having represented England at the Under-20 level.
A Statement on Homegrown Talent
Neil McIlroy, Newcastle’s sporting general manager, emphasized the importance of nurturing local talent. He stated that there has been frustration over the number of players leaving the academy to chase opportunities elsewhere. McIlroy sees Hodge’s return as a turning point.
- “We want Newcastle Red Bulls to be a club where homegrown talent can flourish,” McIlroy asserted.
- “Hodge is a quality English player that will significantly strengthen our squad.”
- “His pace and kicking ability make him a standout, essential for our strategy.”
Current Season Challenges
Despite their efforts, Newcastle has had a challenging start to the season. They have lost all eight of their Premiership matches thus far. However, there was a glimmer of hope, as they secured their first losing bonus point in a 36-27 match against Bristol.
Future Prospects
With the return of Josh Hodge, Newcastle Red Bulls are looking to build a stronger team. The club aims to create an environment where local talent can grow. Hodge’s skills and experience will be vital as the team works to improve its performance in upcoming matches.
