By Martin Morgan

Last updated at 12:34, Wednesday, 10 March 2010

Whitehaven teenage prospect Danny Bower has joined French championship club Carpentras on loan.

The prop, singled out by fellow front-rower Karl Edmondson as a youngster with a big future last year, before the Kiwi’s return home, has linked up with the Gallic outfit for around a month.

Bower, who first featured for Haven’s reserve-grade at just 16, last played in Howard Hill’s testimonial game against Championship One Oldham in January, earning post-match praise from the veteran for his impressive effort.

And coach Ged Stokes believes he has a big future at the Recre.

“It’s win-win all round,” Stokes said. “Carpentras need a prop, and at some stage he will push his way in to our first-team.

“He’s 18, and the more experience he gets over there the better. Our reserve-grade doesn’t start for another three weeks, and he’ll be over there for a month or so.”

Stokes revealed that Haven are developing a relationship with the south of France outfit, which stemmed from dealing with players’ agents.

“They asked if there was anyone I could recommend, and Danny Bower was a good candidate,” he said.

“He needs a little more experience, and going overseas in a different environment will be good for his development. He has all the attributes to be a very good player.”

Bower, from Millom, signed a two-year pro deal with Haven in late 2008, after progressing through the club’s scholarship scheme.

First published at 11:26, Wednesday, 10 March 2010
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk