St Helens captain Jon Wilkin is preparing for his return to action on Friday night against Leeds – and as talk of the treble for the Rhinos intensifies, Wilkin believes his side are the only one that can halt that charge.
Wilkin was part of the St Helens side that won the treble back in 2006 – one of only two members of that squad remaining – and he believes that despite an awful run of form, the Saints can beat Leeds as the season approaches its climax.
“I think we are the only side that can disrupt everything that Leeds are talking about,” he said.
“From my experience – and I look at our resources on the field – and we can not only match Leeds but beat them.
“I have watched a lot of their footage, I have loads of respect for them and they are really entertaining team.
“They are not playing in a structured way and that is what catches teams out.”
Wilkin also sees similarities with this Leeds side and the Saints one that achieved so much nine years ago.
“That reminds me a bit of how we played in 2006, so I can understand the comparisons and why people are saying that they are one of the best sides.”
“Leeds are a great side, the next six weeks will say whether they will be recognised as one of the greatest sides.
“We have got a chance to have a say in that.