NEW boy Jack Hughes insists he wants to fight it out for a starting spot in Warrington Wolves’ back row.

The 23-year-old signed from Wigan Warriors in the off-season but spent last season on loan at Huddersfield Giants, turning down the option to stay at the John Smith’s Stadium.

Hughes can also play at centre, but wants to prove himself to Warrington’s head of coaching and rugby Tony Smith as a back-rower.

He said: “100 per cent I want to play back row and it’s no one else’s responsibility apart from my own.

“There are some good back-rowers at this club, there’s two in the England set up at the minute, so I’ve got a lot to do.

“It keeps you on your toes and you’re not guaranteed a start, so it’s something to fight for.”

Warrington Guardian:

Hughes will be one of a number of options for Smith, with Joe Westerman arriving from Hull FC and Chris Hill and Ben Currie on international duty with England.

That achievement is something the former Golborne High School student would like to replicate.

“It’s something I’d like to aim for, playing for England, and it’s a goal,” added Hughes. “But first of all I’ve got to fight for my spot here and be playing Super League every week at this club.”

The Wigan-based forward turned down the chance to sign permanently with Giants as he is confident Wolves will be fighting it out for silverware next season.

“I had the option,” he explained. “It was a tough decision, but it was the fact a big club close to home wanted me.

“They’re a team that’s goingplaces off the field as well as on it, so I’m looking forward to going for some silverware.

“That’s why we play, because we want to get to Old Trafford and Wembley and win trophies. There’s a good group of players here, a young group as well, so I reckon we can do something special.

“I met Tony before I signed up and he told me what I was coming to and that helped in my decision.

“It’s going to be nice coming training every day at facilities like this (The Wire's Padgate base).”

And he has been made to feel welcome by Wolves' current crop.

“I’m excited to be here and it’s been a good start,” added Hughes. 

“It was ball in hand straight away and not too much running yet, but it’s going to be a long pre-season.

“It’s just nice to get in with all the boys, see their faces and get to know everyone.

“I knew about half a dozen lads before I came over. There are a few Wigan lads and a few I’ve played with in the England Academy, so that always helps.

“They have all brought me in nice and easy."