Shenton feeling more comfortable at Castleford

Castleford centre Michael Shenton believes that the Tigers can make progress this season, largely as a result of there being greater stability behind the scenes at the club.

Coach Daryl Powell has now had the chance to put in a full pre-season with Cas, while his backroom team have also signed long-term deals.

“I think Daryl’s had a really professional attitude to the way he’s wanted pre-season to go,” Shenton told Love Rugby League.

“The squad’s got a bit of depth to it now, and there’s a lot of different combinations that could end up playing together.

“I’ve really worked hard this pre-season. There are some things I can improve in my game, especially the attacking side of it.

“Working with different halfbacks has really helped. I can have a big year.”

Castleford have suffered from disruption in recent seasons, with previous coach Ian Millward undergoing personal tragedy when his son died.

There have also been boardroom ructions, while the ongoing saga surrounding the future of Rangi Chase, now at Salford, also caused some disruption.

“The stuff behind the scenes, with the CEO changing and all that, that really doesn’t help the club,” Shenton added.

“So to have the structure we’ve got in place now is good. The coaching staff have been brilliant, and they’re all signed up on long contracts now.

“It really does help the players feel comfortable, knowing that the coach wants you to be here. Now, the boys have just got to worry about the rugby side of it.”