Hampshire targets future Wigan half-back role

Wigan youngster Ryan Hampshire is looking forwward to making his mark in the new season.

Although he made his debut as a full-back for the Warriors, Hampshire feels that he also has a lot to offer as a scrum-half or stand-off.

“It’s going to be tough, and I’ll be ready to play anywhere Shaun Wane puts me,” he said.

“My natural position is halfback, but I’ve played a lot of times for the first team at fullback.

“I’ll do whatever is best for the team.”

The 20-year-old found his opportunities somewhat limited last season, due to a shoulder injury. This time around, he is feeling fit and ready for action.

“Last year I played eight games. I got injured, so I missed 14 weeks of the season,” he said.

“I was lucky enough to come back for the academy, but this year I’m ready for it.”

One player who has offered the youngster some advice is returning prop Lee Mossop, a man who has experienced shoulder problems himself.

“Lee coming back is massive,” Hampshire said.

“He’s took me under his wing a little bit, too. I’ve had shoulder injuries, so he’s trying to teach me some new stuff about getting ready for games, and getting it stronger.”

Another player who Hampshire turns to for advice is experienced Australian full-back Matty Bowen.

“I ask him stuff about what he’s done in his career,” he said.

“But I want to be my own player. I take stuff from him, but I want to create my own stuff too.

“Whoever’s looking best will get the chance. I play full-back, but I’m looking to try and get in the halves too.”

There has been much talk of the new Super League restructure, but for Hampshire the concept can be boiled down to a simple statement of fact.

“We know we just have to win games,” he said.

“If you win games you win trophies.”