MATTY LEES says there is no shortage of leaders for him to aspire to emulate as the latest captain of St Helens.
The England prop, who enjoyed his testimonial game against Castleford on Saturday, has taken over from Jonny Lomax as club skipper.
Before Lomax’s two seasons leading the side, James Roby spent six years as captain, stretching back to the 2018 campaign when Lees first became a Super League regular.
And Lees will take inspiration from both as he looks to find his own way of fulfilling the role.
“Jonny Lomax has been a big part of my career, through injuries as much as anything – he supported me through the difficult times and he’s a good friend,” the 27-year-old told League Express.
“James Roby is somebody everyone looks up to in the team. He was around for a big part of my career – in every single game I was side-by-side with him, which helped me develop.
“I’d like to think I’ve taken some of what he did as a captain and will do the same. I’ll never be exactly like him – nobody can replace Robes – but if I can do half the job of him and Jonny, then I’ll be doing well.”
There have been two other key influences on Lees’ playing career to date, in current and former frontrow partners.
He said: “The one that stands out, because I’m still playing with him, is Alex Walmsley.
“I’ve shared the eight and ten jersey with him for a few years now. When I was coming through, he looked after me. He keeps me grounded.
“And Louie (McCarthy-Scarsbrook) was a real character. He took me under his wing, helped me develop as a player as well as a person, and made me comfortable around the team.”
Lees is now keen to follow in their footsteps, and help youngsters like George Delaney on their own journeys.
“It comes as a shock when people say I’m a senior player now,” he added.
“It’s been a whirlwind; it’s all come at once. To say it’s my tenth season is a bit scary.
“I’ve been surrounded by great leaders and great senior players throughout my time at St Helens, so I want to pass on what I’ve learned throughout my career to the younger boys.”