Owens ready to be ‘selfish’ at St Helens

Correspondent

New St Helens back Jack Owens has asserted that it is time for him to focus on his career goals, and nail down a starting spot at St Helens.

Owens moved from Widnes at the end of the season to Langtree Park, and he knows he has a real fight on his had if he wants to play regular first-team rugby.

But the 21-year-old, who is beginning a two-year contract at Saints, is ready to be “selfish” and relentlessly focus on his goals.

“I do prefer to play full-back, but at Widnes I was behind Rhys Hanbury – who has been great – and therefore filled in on the wing,” he told Saints’ official website.

Brett Hodgson really helped me a lot with my goalkicking and that’s where my points have come from.

“I’m happy to play wherever though especially at a club like St Helens. There’s a lot of talent here with Jonny Lomax, Shannon McDonnell and Percy too. He has done a great job at fullback when needed.

“I know I have to earn the right to play first. I have to prove to the players and coaching staff that I deserve to play and if I do get the chance, then try and hold on to that spot.

“My focus is to get fit, strong and develop my skills.

“I loved playing at Widnes, the coach and the players were great to be around. I wish them nothing but the best of luck. They are a top eight club for sure.

“But it’s time to be selfish, time to get away from my home club and fight for my position here.”