Tom Johnstone has finalized his return to Wakefield Trinity, marking another major achievement for the ambitious Championship club. The England speedster has agreed to a four-year contract starting in 2025, after turning down a marquee extension with Catalans Dragons.
Johnstone will be accompanied at Belle Vue by his Catalans and England teammate, Mike McMeeken, who was Trinity’s first confirmed signing for their anticipated Super League comeback.
A product of Wakefield’s academy, Johnstone scored 87 tries in 115 games during his initial tenure with the club.
Tom Johnstone is on his way back to Wakefield. (Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com)
The 28-year-old has maintained his impressive try-scoring form since joining the Dragons at the end of 2022, crossing the line 32 times in 39 appearances to date.
Johnstone will conclude his stint in Perpignan at the end of the year to become part of Matt Ellis’ Belle Vue revolution.
“I’m delighted to be returning to Wakefield Trinity next year,” he said.
“The club means a lot to me, and I’ve been following everything over the past 12 months since Matt took over. It’s incredibly exciting for everyone involved. I truly believe the club is building something special.”
Tom Johnstone, right, celebrates last week’s win over Leeds. (Photo: Rémi Vignaud/Catalans Dragons/SWpix.com)
“When my wife and I decided we wanted to return home to England, I spoke with Powelly (Daryl Powell, head coach), Matt, and Millsy (Steve Mills, recruitment and salary cap manager). I was impressed by the ambition and direction the club is aiming for and knew I had to be a part of it.
“I have many wonderful memories from my time here and I know how passionate the fans are. I hope that when I return, I can help create more great moments and bring success to this proud and historic club.”
Powell is eager to utilize the talents of the 2023 Super League Dream Team winger.
“This is our second international player announcement following closely after Mike McMeeken,” he said.
“It demonstrates a clear trajectory for the club in terms of recruiting high-quality players at the top of their game.
“Tom is one of the best wingers in the game, and we are thrilled to bring him back to help drive us toward our collective goals.
“He’s strong, quick, and a world-class finisher. I look forward to working with him in the coming years.”