Ugo Perez could have a huge role to fill in Whitehaven’s bid to retain Championship status.

The young French forward played the whole 80 minutes on his debut against Workington Town in the Summer Bash clash in Blackpool.

Coach James Coyle was delighted with his contribution to the 28-24 victory which lifted Haven out of the drop zone.

“His energy levels were excellent and he really brought something to us. We expect to have him for the rest of the season and I’m sure he’s going to be an important member of the squad,” said Coyle.

Perez has already settled into west Cumbrian life, moving in with his fellow countryman Louis Jouffret, whose goal-kicking was so vital against Town. There’s a possibility that Whitehaven might be able to recruit another French player from the same source as Perez and Jouffret.

“We are still short of a couple of bodies for the squad. There’s nothing imminent but it’s an avenue we are keeping open over the next few weeks,” said the Haven coach.

Perez, 21, is a product of the Catalans academy and has been involved in their match-day squads as well as starring for their feeder club UTC.

“It’s important for him to have some game time and I would like to thank Whitehaven for giving him this opportunity,” said Dragons head coach Laurent Frayssinous.

If Perez is here until the completion of the Super Eights, Whitehaven will have to hold talks about their second recent recruit Anthony Walker after a month.

Walker has joined on loan from Wakefield and the two clubs will discuss the situation at the end of June.

“Like Ugo, Anthony brought us a lot of energy and enthusiasm. They are both confident players and that helped us a lot,” said Coyle.

Walker is no stranger to Whitehaven and the Recre, having played initially for the club on a dual registration agreement during his time at St Helens.