Willis revealed the signing of McGowan this week had solved a pressing problem on the cusp of the start of Junee’s pre-season campaign.

“We really needed a regular first grade halfback,” Willis said yesterday.

“We had guys who could have filled the position, but none of them have his (McGowan’s) experience.

“It’s a massive plus for the club.”

One of the sharpest halfbacks in the Riverina, McGowan played for Cootamundra last year and had been rumoured to be heading to Mackay in North Queensland to play this year.

The sudden change in plans has delivered Junee an invaluable addition to the backline.

McGowan was previously coaxed to Junee in 2010 and was instrumental in the Diesels marching to the Group Nine grand final, only to lose 22-8 to Tumut.

The return of McGowan to Junee is only rivaled by the

signing of Willis as captain-coach.

Willis, however, yesterday disclosed Junee was close to finalising deals with several other prominent players, including two front rowers.

“We’re basically just waiting for signatures,” he said.

With players in the wings, and others standing aside for various reasons, Junee will be well below peak strength for the opening trial against Corrimal at Laurie Daley Park on Saturday.

“It’s not even close,” Willis said.

“It’s not even the best team available.

“These are the guys who have been training and putting in the hours.

“This is a reward and a chance for them to press their claims for a spot in first grade (for the premiership).”

Willis admits he has been delighted with the response to Junee’s pre-season training.

“We’ve been getting 35 players,” he said.

“We’ll have plenty of depth this year.”

Willis yesterday released the Junee team for the trial, naming Phil Latu and rookie Luke Clarke in the centres.

“I’ll be playing five-eighth,” he said.

“I’ll either play lock or five-eighth in the premiership.”

The Junee team is: Daniel Foley, Sebastian McInerney, Phil Latu, Luke Clarke, Chris Lewis, Damien Willis, Chris Sweeney, Justin Walker, Hayden Diggins, Brad Nicol, Sean Wilson, Gavin Lamb, Blake Cowled.