![There are reports John Bateman had a crack at Benji Marshall before joining Warrington for the rest of the year. Picture: Mark Evans/Getty Images](https://leaguenews.co/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Bateman-Bizarrely-Bails-Tigers-Say-Stefano-Stays-scaled.jpeg)
LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The Wests Tigers are facing some turbulence in their roster, with Englishman John Bateman flying back home to play for Warrington in the Super League for the rest of the season.
However, head coach Benji Marshall is confident that Bateman will return to the Tigers next year, citing a heated argument as the reason for his temporary departure.
Despite a challenging season, Marshall is optimistic about Bateman's future at the club, with two more years left on his contract.
However, the situation is less certain with prop Stefano Utoikamanu, who is weighing offers from rival clubs and has yet to make a decision on his future.
Marshall addressed the media in New Zealand, expressing his desire to keep Utoikamanu at the club for the long term.
He emphasized that the focus for now is on the game at hand, but reassured fans that updates on Bateman's situation will be provided by the club later on.
In the world of Rugby League, uncertainties and player movements are all part of the game.
The Tigers are prepared to navigate these challenges and stay focused on their performance on the field, with hopes of securing key players like Utoikamanu for the seasons to come.