RETIREMENT was short-lived for Barrie McDermott. Four months after hanging up his boots, the former Great Britain and Leeds Rhinos prop is to play part-time for Widnes Vikings in LHF National League One, but will retain his full-time coaching and marketing positions at Headingley.
He blamed a combination of turning out in a pre-season match for Oldham against Leeds and the persuasive powers of Terry O’Connor, his former Wigan and Great Britain team-mate. “I got so fed up of O’Connor mithering, it was easier to sign,” McDermott, 33, said. “It won’t affect what I’m doing with Leeds. Most Rhinos games are Friday nights and Widnes play on Sundays. I’ve spoken to the club and they’ve got no problem with it.”
Jamie Lyon, the 2005 Man of Steel, has no plans to stay with St Helens beyond the forthcoming season. The Australia centre is being courted by several NRL clubs, including Manly Sea Eagles and the newly formed Gold Coast Titans. “I thought I’d have a good time here, but it’s been even better than that,” he said. “I just want to get the season started, play a few games, and go from there. ”