George Williams backs Josh Drinkwater for a big 2024

It has been one of the big talking points among supporters during the off-season and as such, it was perhaps the main item lying in Sam Burgess’ in-tray when he took over as head coach.

With the campaign about to get underway, it would appear as though the more experienced Josh Drinkwater has won the day over the youth of Leon Hayes – and Williams is backing him for a big year after the Australian underwhelmed by his own admission in 2023.

Having arrived from Catalans Dragons this time last year, Drinkwater’s fortunes arguably mirrored that of the team as a whole – his and Williams’ partnership got off to a flying start before falling away, although mitigation can be offered in that both players had their issues with injury.

His displays often came in for criticism from supporters but having received “direct” messaging about his role from Burgess this year, Drinkwater is being backed to make more of an impact.

“We had a tough year,” Williams said about his link-up with his half-back partner.

“We started it really well together, but there were a lot of grey areas with how we played last year.

“There were a lot of ways out and shortcuts without getting pulled on it but now, Sam’s direct. He’s clear about what he wants from us and if we don’t do it, we don’t play.

“We’re looking good in training but we have to do it consistently now.

“Drinky says himself that he didn’t have a great year last year but he’s come back hungry.

“He’s probably the fittest I’ve seen him since he’s been at the club, so hopefully it sets him up for a big year.

“His role is a lot clearer this year. With me liking to be a dominant half and maybe being on the ball a little bit too much last year, I think he found it hard.

“We had a system that was half-and-half but now, he’ll be on the ball and I will swing each side.

“He knows his role and I’ll just chime in – hopefully it works.”

Many supporters had advocated the promotion of homegrown scrum-half Hayes to first-choice having impressed in the three Super League appearances he has made to date.

At the age of just 19, however, Williams believes rushing the Warringtonian’s development would be to his detriment.

“Leon’s had a glimpse of first-team but I think he needs 12 months of playing against men now,” he said.

“That could be on dual-registration when the time comes – there’s some good teams in the Championship and he’ll certainly learn his trade there.

“He’ll be really good for us over time but we can’t rush him too quick – if we’re talking about trying to win a Grand Final, it’s a big ask for a young kid.”

One youngster Williams was happy to make bold predictions about, however, is centre Connor Wrench.

Having been highly thought-of since his academy days and following a first-team breakthrough in 2021, his progress was hindered by an ACL injury towards the end of 2022 which meant he spent much of last season in recovery.

Four tries in nine appearances followed when he did return and with Stefan Ratchford and Rodrick Tai suffering from injuries, he looks set to start the season alongside Toby King in the centres.

And after being paired up with him on the same edge by Burgess, Williams is keen to try and make sure the player he calls “a freak” realises his potential.

“Connor Wrench is so good – when he realises how good he is, that’s when we’ll really see him,” he said.

“This is a big call but I think he’ll have a breakout year, and then we’re talking about an England centre. That’s a big rap but I see it every day.

“He reminds me of Harry Newman – he’s explosive, fast and can score from anywhere but I think he just needs a run of games.

“When you first come into the first team, you’re shy and in your shell and you maybe don’t say what you want to.

“I feel like he’s matured and is next to me on the edge now, so I’m trying to bring the best out of him.

“He obviously had the bad injury as well but people normally get slower after an ACL but he’s got faster!

“He’s a freak and hopefully he has a good year but I’m backing him.”