SAINTS back rower Jon Wilkin says the team are hoping to start the new campaign “with a bang” as they look to retain the Super League trophy, writes Emma Rigby.

Although the experienced pack leader may have spent the back end of last season on the sidelines with just a few weeks of rehab left, Wilkin has his sights set firmly on continuing the club’s success in February.

The squad is back in training under the watchful eye of new boss Keiron Cunningham and Sean Long.

He said: “We are very optimistic. The way we finished last year has obviously been an exceptional boost for the club and for the community and going into the new year we’re very optimistic about what the future holds.

“With Keiron Cunningham taking charge the club is in great hands and we’re looking forward to the challenge of being champions this year and what that brings with it.”

New signings Travis Burns and Atelea Vea are of course causing a lot of excitement among both players and spectators alike and Wilkin is no different.

He said: “Both Travis and Atelea have trained with us. Both are players I have admired when I’ve been playing against them and I can’t to play with them.

“Travis is very much like Jason Hooper. He’s aggressive and very competitive like I am.

“Atelea is a dynamic and powerful force in the back row.

“Obviously we’ve lost Sia Soliola and Willie Manu and that’s a replacement there.”

Wilkin himself says he is just a few weeks from being back to full fitness, with his injury time giving him chance to reflect on both his position on and off the field.

He added: “I know people will be gunning for us next season, that’s always been the way as long as I’ve been with the club.

“But we’re focusing very much on starting the season with a bang and bringing in some more silverware.”