Play it again, Sam

Photo: Max Flego

SAM GEE . . . signed for another season

SAMMY Gee has abandoned plans to hang up his boots in favour of having one last season in Oldham RL colours.

Major factors in his decision were the backing of his day-job boss and head coach Scott Naylor's acceptance of his request for a more settled role within the squad.

Nearing 30, and having recently become a parent, bricklayer Sammy returned to his day job yesterday after a month off because of severe ankle-ligament damage sustained against Bradford Bulls at The Provident Stadium.

He has signed a new one-year deal to cover what will be his fifth year at Oldham.

Said vice-captain Sammy: "This was going to be my last season, but the thought of just fading away injured was a real sickener.

"I hated telling my boss at work that I needed a month off, but after his initial shock he was very supportive. He insisted that I should sign up for another year with the Roughyeds.

"I'm happy to play in any position on the team for the good of the squad. I could cope with that in League One, but the leap to the Championship is massive and I've talked with Scott about playing more in the middle next season rather than filling-in at full-back or centre.

"I don't need surgery on the ankle, but I've torn every ligament and its still going to be four to six weeks before I can do any light running."

Naylor said Gee's versatility ­- he has played full-back, centre, half-back and every position in the pack ­- made him extremely valuable to the squad.

'UNDERSTANDING'

"He's also reaching his peak as a player, particularly in his reading and understanding of the game," added the Oldham boss.

"He's been happy to play all over the shop, but next season we'll be looking at playing him in the middle more, say loose-forward or hooker, and I'm really looking forward to seeing how he goes."