- Wigan Warriors’ Luke Thompson on facing former club St Helens in derby
As derby day approaches, all eyes are on Luke Thompson as he prepares to line up for the Wigan Warriors against his old side, St Helens — a fixture that carries deep emotion and fierce rivalry. For Thompson, this isn’t just another game. It’s a reunion with familiar faces, but one that will be all business once the whistle blows.
The former St Helens prop, who returned to Super League after a stint in the NRL with Canterbury Bulldogs, is now a key figure in the Wigan pack. Despite his past success in the red and white of Saints, Thompson insists his focus is entirely on helping Wigan claim bragging rights in one of rugby league’s most iconic showdowns.
Speaking ahead of the much-anticipated clash, Thompson opened up about what it means to face the club where he made his professional debut and became a household name.
“St Helens will always hold a special place in my heart,” Thompson said. “It’s where I grew up in the game, where I learned what it takes to compete at this level. But now, I’m a Wigan Warrior — and come derby day, my only priority is this badge and this team.”
The rivalry between Wigan and St Helens is one of the fiercest in rugby league, known for its intensity, physicality, and passionate fanbases. Adding to the drama is the fact that Thompson, a former Saints academy product, is now wearing the cherry and white of their biggest rivals.
Since returning to the UK, Thompson has brought a wealth of experience and professionalism to the Wigan side. His performances this season have already drawn praise, and his leadership in the forward pack has been vital in Wigan’s strong start to the campaign.
While Thompson admits there will be emotions involved in facing former teammates, he’s clear that the focus remains firmly on the task at hand.
“There’s no hiding the fact that it’s going to be a bit strange seeing some of the lads I used to go into battle with now standing opposite me,” he said. “But that’s the nature of professional sport. Once the game starts, friendships are put to one side.”
For Wigan, this match represents more than just two points — it’s a chance to assert dominance over a long-time rival and continue building momentum toward the Super League playoffs. For Thompson, it’s also an opportunity to show his growth as a player and the impact he can have in big games.
As the matchday draws near, both sets of supporters are buzzing with anticipation. For Thompson, this will be more than just a physical battle — it’s a personal chapter in his career, one shaped by loyalty, professionalism, and the ever-burning fire of derby passion.
No matter the outcome, one thing’s certain: Luke Thompson will leave everything on the field when he meets his former club in one of rugby league’s most anticipated encounters.
