Ryan Carr has not even taken charge of his first training session as Castleford Tigers’ new head coach, yet he has already made headlines by targeting two of Super League’s most polarising stars for shock signings. According to inside reports, Carr has set his sights on none other than Zak Hardaker and Jake Connor — two players as famous for their controversies as they are for their undeniable talent.
The bold move signals Carr’s intent to stamp his authority on the club immediately, but it has also left Castleford supporters divided. Some are excited by the prospect of big-name arrivals, while others fear the off-field baggage could disrupt the Tigers’ fragile rebuild.
Speaking in a brief media scrum outside the Mend-A-Hose Jungle, Carr hinted that he wants fearless characters in his squad. “Look, Castleford is a proud club, and I want us to play with passion and unpredictability. Zak and Jake bring that spark. Yes, they’ve had their challenges, but I see them as players who can win you games when it matters most,” he said.
Hardaker, a former Man of Steel, is no stranger to Castleford fans. His first spell with the Tigers in 2017 ended abruptly after he tested positive for cocaine, missing out on the Grand Final in the process. Despite his off-field troubles, the fullback remains one of the most gifted players in the competition. His ability to break defensive lines and control games is unquestioned — but so is the baggage he brings.
For many fans, the idea of bringing him back stirs mixed emotions. On Twitter, one supporter wrote: “Zak cost us once before. Why should we open that door again? It’s like playing with fire.” Yet another fan defended the potential reunion: “Everyone deserves a second chance. Zak was brilliant for us on the field. If Carr can manage him, we could be contenders again.”
Jake Connor, currently one of the most divisive figures in Super League, is known for his fiery temper, constant backchat with referees, and his tendency to wind up opponents. While some see him as a disruptive influence, others admire his competitive edge and creative flair.
Castleford captain Paul McShane was diplomatic when asked about the rumours. “Jake is one of those players who never hides. He brings energy, sometimes the wrong kind, but he’s a competitor. If the coach believes in him, then we’ll welcome him into the group like anyone else.”
Connor himself has never shied away from his reputation. In a past interview, he admitted: “Yeah, I get under people’s skin. But that’s me. I play with fire, and I won’t change who I am.”
The split among the Castleford faithful is as clear as ever. Some see Carr’s moves as a statement of ambition — a willingness to bring in proven match-winners. Others worry about team chemistry and the potential for off-field drama.
On Facebook, one fan argued: “This is exactly what Castleford needs — big names who aren’t afraid to take risks on the pitch. We’ve played it safe for too long.” Yet another countered: “Carr hasn’t even run his first training session, and he’s already looking at two of the most controversial players in the league. It feels like a circus waiting to happen.”
Super League pundits have also weighed in, with some praising Carr’s daring approach. Rugby league columnist Matt Shaw commented: “Carr is showing that he won’t tiptoe into this job. Hardaker and Connor may divide opinion, but if managed properly, they could transform Castleford from outsiders to serious challengers.”
The coming weeks will reveal whether Carr’s bold recruitment plans materialise. One thing is certain: before even taking charge of a single training drill, Ryan Carr has made Castleford Tigers the talk of the rugby league world.
“People can question the choices,” Carr said with a grin, “but they can’t question the ambition. I want Castleford to be feared again.”
Whether that ambition leads to glory or controversy, the Tigers’ new era has begun with a bang.
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