New Warriors prop Patrick Mago confirmed he would be proud to represent Samoa at this year’s rugby league World Cup.
The 27-year-old New Zealand native has made a bright start to life in Wigan and is eligible to play for the Toa’s on account of his heritage.
Speaking ahead of his team’s upcoming Super League game against Hull FC, Mago expressed a desire to feature for the country of his parents’ birth.
He said: “It is definitely a goal for me.
“Playing some good footy [for WIgan] will definitely put me in a good place.
“If it happens it happens.”
The former South Sydney prop retains a strong and present connection to his family ancestry, sporting a wrist strap with the word ‘aiga’ – Samoan for family.
Mago joined the Warriors from the NRL Sydney side after short stints with Brisbane Broncos and North Queensland Cowboys.
And, according to his coach Matt Peet, has taken well to life in his new surroundings.
Peet said: “It has felt like he has been here for a long time.
“You can tell from the way he has got on with all the lads that he has had experience of moving from place to place.
“We have a good relationship and have started well together.”
Mago’s addition has helped the Warriors make an excellent start to 2022.
Peet’s side currently sit third in the Super League table, level on points with leaders St Helens.
A 28-0 defeat to Catalans Dragons is the only blip of their otherwise unblemished record.
