O’Neill left Love Island this week to ‘get back to himself’
Castleford Tigers have offered welfare support to Jacques O’Neill following his exit from Love Island, but coach Lee Radford is unsure whether he will return to the club.
O’Neill left the Tigers last month to take part in Love Island, however, the 23-year-old announced his departure from the show on Tuesday, saying that he needed to “get back to himself”.
Such an emotional goodbye 😭 #LoveIsland pic.twitter.com/fXXrLH69qy
— Love Island (@LoveIsland) July 12, 2022
He visited Castleford on Wednesday morning, but despite the club having the first option to re-sign the hooker if he wanted to resume his rugby league career, coach Radford revealed they have not spoken about a potential return.
“It’s not something we’ve spoke about, obviously it only happened last night, he flew home last night,” Radford said when asked about re-signing O’Neill.
“He looked jaded, he’d had no sleep, obviously all the euphoria of doing what he’s been doing, I suppose, that’s probably a conversation for further down the line, I think.”
Speaking about O’Neill leaving the show to protect his mental health, he added: “Like any walk of life there are obstacles in front of you, unfortunately, making sure people are around you whether that be your family or
club related to help you deal with that is pretty important.”
Castleford confirmed in a statement that O’Neill will be able to receive support from Castleford’s welfare officer “should he wish”.
Castleford Tigers can confirm that today, Jacques O’Neill has been in communication with the club, visited our First Team ahead of today’s training session and that O’Neill can receive support from our Welfare Officer should he wish.#NewCasEra | #COYF
— Castleford Tigers (@CTRLFC) July 13, 2022
A statement read: “In advance of appearing on the reality TV show Love Island, the Tigers’ welfare officer had communication with O’Neill, and this support will continue to be offered to him. Alongside the welcoming nature of our first-team environment, of which he has been a part since the age of 16.
“Castleford Tigers’ primary focus with Jacques at this stage will be to support him. All at the club look forward to welcoming Jacques and his mother Janet to The Mend-A-Hose Jungle for a Betfred Super League match very soon, to cheer on the Fords.
“The club will make no further comment at this stage.”
O’Neill – who was named in the England Knights performance squad in 2021 – has recorded 29 appearances for the Tigers during his career.
Related links:
- Love Island fans are sceptical after ‘spotting clues’ in Jacques’ sudden villa exit
- Jacques O’Neill quits Love Island hours after Adam Collard sets sights on Paige Thorne
- Michael Owen reveals why he won’t appear on Love Island’s meet the parents episode
