Warrington Wolves’ Rising Star Leon Hayes Seizes His Opportunity
Warrington Wolves’ young gun Leon Hayes has quickly established himself as a key figure in Sam Burgess’ side this season, seizing his chance with both hands. The 20-year-old half-back, who hails from Warrington, has already made seven appearances for the first team in 2024 – far exceeding the 10-game target Burgess had initially set for his development.
Injuries to experienced halves George Williams and Josh Drinkwater have thrust Hayes into the limelight earlier than planned, but the homegrown talent has risen to the challenge, forming an impressive combination with full-back Matt Dufty and hooker Danny Walker in Warrington’s spine.
“I can’t speak of him more glowingly,” Burgess said of Hayes at the club’s training ground this week. “He’s a good lad, he works hard and he cares about his role. This whole year is about Leon’s development, but because of the circumstances he’s nearly at 10 games already and he’s been under more pressure than I’d have liked, but not one part of it has bothered him. He’s doing really well.”
Despite standing at just 5ft 4in, the diminutive Hayes has proven he’s not afraid of the physical demands of rugby league. Burgess believes the young playmaker is in a “really fortunate position”, surrounded by experienced heads like Williams, Walker, Dufty and Stef Ratchford, who can guide his progression.
“Leon is surrounded by guys who are competent, so it keeps his role pretty simple and he’s getting better every time he gets on the field,” Burgess added.
Teammate Jordy Crowther has backed Hayes to continue his strong form for the rest of the campaign, tipping the Warrington-born talent for a “real breakthrough season” in 2024. Hayes will have the chance to showcase his abilities on the biggest stage yet when Warrington take on fierce rivals St Helens in the Challenge Cup quarter-finals on Sunday.
đź”— Source
