Harry Newman has voiced his desire to realise a childhood dream and earn inclusion in England’s World Cup squad. The Leeds Rhinos starlet made his long-awaited return in the club's defeat to Huddersfield Giants on Friday.
The highly-rated centre was cruelly struck down earlier this season when he aggravated a previous hamstring injury and was forced to undergo surgery. It was another major setback to a player rated as one of the finest talents of his generation but Newman is back after returning to the field on Friday. For a player known to be regarded highly by England boss Shaun Wane, Newman is desperate to represent his country at the World Cup this autumn.
“This is such a big year, leading into a home World Cup, so the injury was tough to take,” the 22-year-old told Rugby League Live. “But for me it was just about staying focused and now I want to get back playing and hopefully make the England squad at the end of the year.
“Now I’m in the right shape to be ready to come back and give myself every chance of playing well for Leeds and making that World Cup squad.”
Next week’s mid-season international against the Combined Nations All Stars seems certain to come too soon for Newman. “I’m still in the England squad at the minute but I doubt I’ll be involved in next week’s game because I’ve not played for Leeds since early March,” he said. “But I’ll certainly be looking to put my stamp on getting a position within the England squad when I get back playing.”
Uncapped Newman faces fierce competition for a place in England’s World Cup side from the likes of Brisbane Broncos star Herbie Farnworth and St Helens centre Mark Percival.
It does not faze him as he explained: “There are a number of quality players who can play centre for England and have done so before. But for me I’ll just focus on myself and improve where I can to be the best I can be. If I’m playing at my maximum, then I think I’ll give myself a good chance of being involved.
“Playing for England in a World Cup on home soil is something you grow up dreaming about. I’d say representing your country is a dream for any professional athlete. I’ve always wanted to play for England and I’m sure if I get that opportunity I’ll take it.”
