Turner knows that St Helens must forget about being champions

St Helens utility back Jordan Turner is not going to allow last season’s Grand Final triumph to interfere with preparations for the new campaign.

Saints coach Keiron Cunningham has warned his players that they cannot bask in last season’s glories and expect success to follow automatically.

“It’s fantastic to start the season as champions but to be honest that has been and gone now,” Turner told his club’s official website.

“Keiron has told us to forget the champions tag, 2014 is done, and 2015 is about proving it wasn’t just a one off. We want to push on and win more trophies this year.

“Teams will aim up. We saw that from Widnes in pre-season and it was a good eye opener for us. Catalan owe us one from last year’s semi-final too I suppose and have made some great signings.

“We’ve done the same too. Travis Burns is an old school half back; a tough niggly back with a massive skillset. That is a rarity these days.

“Atelea Vea stood out in that London team too and will bring a lot to us. They are both great blokes and great players.”

Saints also need to start the season well, with the new structure meaning that every game takes importance.

“We need a good start. With fewer teams in the top flight the standard has been raised. We have to be on our game every week,” Turner added.

“We’re looking forward to it. It can be frustrating as a rugby league player at this time of year as you just want to play. Well, the time has come.”