JACK HUGHES hopes to give the leader of the country more reason to smile – then Andy Burnham may repay the favour.
For the Leigh star hopes his elevation to being Prime Minister can be good for rugby league.
Jack Hughes hopes having Leigh fan Andy Burnham as Prime Minister can benefit rugby league. Credit: SWPIX.COM
Andy Burnham is a Leopards follower after his time as Leigh’s MP. Credit: Reuters
The man at Number 10 is a devoted Leopards supporter after serving as the town’s MP, now he is behind enemy lines when it comes to tonight’s battle of the Borough as he represents Makerfield, which almost entirely lies in Wigan.
But back rower Hughes hopes having a fan of the sport at the head of the Government – barring Leed-raised Liz Truss, the first Prime Minister from the sport’s territory since Harold Wilson – can only be positive.
He said: “Rugby league’s almost been overlooked, but if Andy Burnham can get us things like funding.
“And maybe if he can attend and bring other special guests to certain events, maybe he can help get it in the shop window a bit. Promote the sport further afield.
“Andy watched us at Magic Weekend and I think he’s a friend of our owner, Derek Beaumont. So it’s great to see him follow the club and he is a genuine fan.
“I don’t think it’s just a case of a bit of publicity for him now with what’s going on in his life. Maybe he can make some things happen for rugby league.”
Leigh’s fortunes will have an impact in the corridors of Westminster for the second week running.
Last week, they saw off Warrington – of whom Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle is a fan. Tonight it is neighbours Wigan, who count culture secretary Lisa Nandy as a follower.
Hughes hopes to give Andy Burnham more reason to cheer with a Leigh win over neighbours Wigan. Credit: SWPIX.COM
And former Warrior Hughes, 34, sums up the task in front of Adrian Lam’s men in just three words – Wigan are Wigan.
“They always have been, always will be,” he added. “You’ve got to beat your best. If you’re a little bit off, you know, you’re going to get burnt and it could be really bad for you.
“When I first left Wigan, facing them was a bit strange, but now it’s just another test.
“One of the best things about them is whether they’ve got full strength or they’ve got half a dozen young boys in there, they’ll do the same job.”
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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