Asiata has signed a three-year contract at Hull FC from next season.
Adrian Lam believes that John Asiata’s choice to join Hull FC is primarily motivated by financial considerations. However, he emphasizes that there are no ill feelings between Asiata and the Leigh Leopards club, where Asiata currently serves as captain.
According to Hull Live’s report on Friday afternoon, Asiata has inked a three-year contract with Hull FC starting from the 2025 season. The deal reportedly includes a marquee salary exceeding £200,000 for the player.
The club swiftly confirmed the signing after the news broke. Lam, whose own contract expires at the end of the season, shared his thoughts on Asiata’s move following Saturday’s 28-28 draw with Castleford Tigers.
“I have a lot of respect and admiration for John, as does the club and the fans. He has a genuine affection for this place,” Lam expressed. “Throughout his time here, he has made invaluable contributions to the club, and his impact has been truly commendable.
“While it’s disappointing to see him go, I understand that his decision is driven by what’s best for him and his family financially. We fully support him in this choice. It’s part of the game; players come and go. As our captain, losing him will be a loss, but it also presents an opportunity for us to grow and evolve.”
“John is integral to this club, and his leadership as captain in lifting the Challenge Cup last year will forever be cherished. There are no hard feelings towards him whatsoever.”
Leigh owner Derek Beaumont disclosed that recent injuries to Asiata factored into the club’s decision not to match Hull’s offer of a three-year deal. Initially, Leigh had proposed a one-year contract, which was later extended to two years. However, they were unwilling to commit to three years. Asiata, who is now 31 and a current Super League Dream Team player following Leigh’s Challenge Cup victory last season, is expected to be sidelined for four to six weeks due to a hamstring injury.
“John had to withdraw from the game due to a hamstring strain,” Lam explained. “He’ll undergo rehabilitation here and return to lead the team once he’s fully recovered.”