MATTY ASHTON says Warrington Wolves’ youth system is bearing fruit with two highly-rated talents in the spine.
Ewan Irwin and Cai Taylor-Wray have had contrasting seasons, but England winger Ashton believes both are heading for the top.
Irwin has established himself as a regular at just 18 years of age, forming a halfback partnership with another Wire product in Leon Hayes, himself only 22.
He’s been so impressive in the absence of injured captain George Williams, who remains on track to return from a serious neck injury next month, that veteran Marc Sneyd has been left sidelined – and now bound for Salford next year – and Oli Leyland has been released.
Taylor-Wray, meanwhile, started the season in impressive fashion with four tries in his first four games.
But the 20-year-old fullback hasn’t played since April as he continues to battle a troublesome ankle following surgery.
Lachlan Webster, 19, has recently filled that position at the back, with another Academy product, Josh Thewlis, on the mend after an ankle operation.
It’s further evidence of a strong crop of players now being produced by the club.
“We’ve got a good youth system with a lot of good young players coming through, and they are showcasing what they’re about on the big stage,” said Ashton.
“The main thing this year is when we’ve got injuries, there are players who can step up and do just as good a job.
“Ewan has got his chance, with George being out, to own the team.
“Then there’s Cai Taylor-Wray who has been unlucky with injuries, but you’ve all seen how electric he is and we’re really excited to get him back.
“They’re great characters. Ewan is a bit more quiet and Cai is livelier, but they’re both great blokes. They’re great to be around.
“You see how much they work every day and they take everything in. Ewan has George and Marc Sneyd around him so he takes it all in.
“Hopefully they’ll both go all the way.”