Anthony Gelling completes Wigan Warriors move
Page last updated at 13:16 GMT, Monday, 12 December 2011
Gelling is seen as a replacement for union-bound Joel Tomkins
Wigan have signed Cook Islands international Anthony Gelling.
The 21-year-old, who can play at centre or second row, previously played for Sydney Roosters and joins the Warriors from Auckland Vulcans.
Gelling stands at 6ft 5in tall and will begin pre-season training in Florida this week.
"Anthony comes highly recommended and having studied his career I am sure he has the attributes to make a massive impact," Wigan coach Shaun Wane said.
New Zealand-born Gelling featured for the Roosters in the Toyota Cup in 2009 and 2010 but was dismissed from the New South Wales club for an alleged off-the-field matter in September 2010.
He returned to the country of his birth to join the Vulcans this year.
"He may be unknown to the public in the UK, however, some of English rugby league's most successful imports have come over with similar reputations," Warne continued.
"Players like Kevin Iro, Henry Paul, Frano Botica and even George Carmont were little known over here but proved to be world-class acquisitions.
"I know he has learned from his experience both at the Roosters and in New Zealand and comes to the club fully prepared to buy into the Wigan culture and establish himself as a first-team player."
Gelling added: "I am delighted to be here and am really looking forward to getting straight into training with my new team-mates.
"It will be an honour to play for the world-famous Wigan and I've already heard about how passionate the Warriors supporters are.
"I know the squad is packed full of talent so I will have to work hard to earn the opportunity to show the coaching staff and fans exactly what I can offer."
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See also
-
O'Carroll 'chose Hull over Wigan'
02 December 11Rugby league
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Wigan to develop Welsh youngsters
17 November 11Rugby league
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Tomkins joins Saracens from Wigan
07 November 11Rugby union
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Tomkins agrees new Wigan contract
07 November 11Rugby league
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