Tuesday 11 October 2016 18:36, UK
Super League champions Wigan Warriors have confirmed the double signing of France full-back Morgan Escare and Bath winger Liam Forsyth.
Escare joins from Catalans Dragons on an initial 12-month contract, with the option of a further year, and will provide cover for Sam Tomkins and Dom Manfredi, who are currently recovering from ankle and knee injuries respectively.
Forsyth - a former Wigan academy player - has returned to the DW Stadium and signed a two-year deal, with the option of a third year, after spending the last 12 months in rugby union with Bath.
"Arrivals into the 2017 squad are now nearing completion," Wigan chairman Ian Lenagan said: "We felt that additional quality in the backs would be needed to help cover wing and full-back and to add competition for places with our promoted academy players.
"Dom Manfredi's knee injury is severe and he will miss a large part of next season and, whilst Lewis Tierney has done a fine job and will be hard to displace, Morgan Escare will now cover the full-back position and add experienced competition for the wing position."
Escare added: "After four years in Super League with Catalans, I feel that the time is right for a change for me.
"This is a fantastic opportunity for my family and me and we are really excited to be joining Wigan. I grew up in France watching and admiring Wigan and it will be an honour and a privilege to represent the Cherry and Whites in 2017."
Escare, 24, burst onto the Super League scene in spectacular fashion in 2013, scoring 18 tries in just 20 matches for Catalans before representing France at the 2013 World Cup.
Forsyth, 20, spent two seasons with Wigan's U19s before switching codes and joining Bath in October 2015.
Wigan coach Shaun Wane said: "We had lengthy discussions with Liam and it was clear that he was extremely keen to return to Wigan. He is a talented young player who we know well and rate highly. He is a welcome addition to the squad for 2017."
