Adam O’Brien Reflects on Winger’s Departure as Dom Young’s Transfer to Newcastle Approaches

The Newcastle Knights are poised to welcome back Dominic Young as early as next week, following an announcement from Roosters coach Trent Robinson regarding the young talent’s exit.

While neither club has officially confirmed the mid-season transfer, both coaches have expressed awareness of the situation as it develops.

“I think everything will be resolved by tomorrow,” Robinson stated in his post-match press conference on Saturday, when questioned about Young’s prospects.

“It’s quite clear he will be heading to Newcastle from Monday.”

The talented English player has spent considerable time in reserve grade lately after being removed from the starting line-up by Robinson in round 11.

He was reinstated the following week against the Sharks due to Robert Toia’s unavailability owing to State of Origin duties.

Now, Young is on the verge of making a return to the Knights, the club where he began his professional career in 2021.

Adam O’Brien acknowledged he couldn’t comment on the specifics of the contract situation but assured that Young would be warmly welcomed by the playing group upon his arrival.

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“Absolutely, I will,” O’Brien affirmed when asked about Young’s impending return. “I didn’t want him to leave in the first place.”

“Hopefully, we’ll be discussing his selection for next week. We’ll also have Bradman (Best) and Tyson (Gamble) back… we’re looking forward to some added experience next week.”

“Right now, I’m just extremely proud of our younger players.”

Knights captain Dane Gagai stated he has yet to contemplate Young’s arrival.

“I’ll be clichéd here, but I don’t look too far ahead,” he noted.

“My focus is on helping us break into the top eight. If he does join us, he will be welcomed with open arms. But we need to concentrate on winning games, no matter how they come.”