Wigan Warriors head coach Shaun Wane has insisted he never considered bringing someone in to replace departed Australian halfback Blake Green – saying he has complete confidence in rookie George Williams.
Williams made a smattering of appearances for the Warriors in 2014, but is expected to be paired with Matty Smith on a more permanent basis this season, with Green having left for pastures new in the NRL.
And Wane says Williams will be given as much time as possible to ensure he “finds his feet” as a Super League regular.
“I didn’t look at anybody (else),’ Wane said. ‘I’m quite stubborn, once I go with something, I stay with it, I stick with my convictions.
“He’s not under any pressure from me because I know he can play. Whether it happens in the next 10 or 20 games, I’m not that bothered, I’m willing to keep working with him.
“It took Blake Green and Matty Smith a long time to work together and now we’re asking a 20-year-old kid to do that.
“There’s a lot for George to learn – he’s still only very young – but he defends tough and he will learn. He’s finding his feet at the minute and I’m willing to give him all the time he needs. There is no doubt in my mind he’s going to be a top player.”
