Josh Drinkwater excited to build partnership with “England’s best” George Williams

Josh McAllister
Josh Drinkwater George Williams

Josh Drinkwater says he is relishing the prospect of building a partnership with George Williams following his move to Warrington ahead of the 2023 Super League season.

Drinkwater, 30, has entered pre-season with his seventh club following the move, while Williams is expected to report to training in the new year.

The 28-year-old former Wigan half-back was included in the World Cup Team of the Tournament following a fine display for England, despite being knocked out in the semi-finals to Samoa.

Drinkwater makes the move from Catalans, having played alongside both James Maloney and Mitchell Pearce in Perpignan in the previous two seasons.

However, he’s now looking forward to creating another partnership with his new team-mate in Williams.

Josh Drinkwater relishing new half-back partnership

“George had a great World Cup, he was probably England’s best player in my opinion,” Drinkwater told Love Rugby League.

“I think everyone knows how good George is. Obviously the team at Warrington struggled last year and it’s hard for a half when you’re playing in a team that’s struggling.

“I’m sure he’s ready to come back in and put last year behind him, as the club is. They’ve made a lot of changes and the feeling around the place is very good at the moment. I’ve been quite surprised at how positive it is and the feeling around the place.

“It’s a really good vibe at the moment and everyone is training really hard. And once George is back in January, we can start to build combinations and get ready for round one.”

Drinkwater makes the move on a two-year deal, which will see him turn 32 by his final year. However, the Sydney-born half-back is hoping to play on beyond his current deal, as well as helping Germany qualify for the 2025 World Cup.

“The body feels good, touch wood,” he said. “As you get older, you learn a lot and the things you need to do for your body. But I still feel great.

“Mentally I feel really good as well, so I’m hoping to play a lot longer.”

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