Wakefield Trinity: Wakefield sell homesick forward Simon back to former club Catalan Dragons

Club chairman Michael Carter said Trinity had done everything possible to keep hold of the international, who only signed a new one-year deal, with the option to extend it to two – at Belle Vue in April.

Carter said: “Mika was adamant that he did not wish to return.

“The club was faced with either forcing a player to return unhappy, and probably not see the best of him, or agreeing a deal for him to remain in France.

“Unfortunately this now leaves us with a hole to fill in our playing roster for next year, and we are endeavouring to do so. Whilst I am annoyed with certain parties’ actions within this whole process, I would like to thank Mika for his efforts whilst being at Wakefield.”

Prop Simon, 29, who has signed a two-year-deal, added: “It has been a pleasure to play for Wakefield these past two years, I have loved my time here at the club and have made some great friends who I will miss.”

“I now need to be close to my family and see them more often, I would like to thank Wakefield for allowing me the opportunity to move back home. I would also like to thank the coaching staff and Wakefield supporters for their support the past two years; it has been a great experience for me.”

Dragons coach Laurent Frayssinous said: “I’m really satisfied to have Mika back with us.

“His experience in the UK allowed him to increase his game time and to improve his level and he will add quality to our squad. He is reaching maturity and will bring his experience to the team.”

Catalans chief executive Christophe Jouffret said: “I would like to thank the chairman Michael Carter and everyone at Wakefield who have agreed to grant Mika a release to join our club.”

Simon made 65 appearances for the Catalans and then went on to play 44 times for Trinity.