3. Warrington Wolves
The pressure will be on Steve Price. Despite the memorable Challenge Cup win over huge favourites St Helens, the way Warrington ended the League campaign was horrendous for a squad with so much quality. It just wasn’t good enough.
Their squad on paper still looks very strong, especially in the pivots. Daryl Clark and Blake Austin are two of the best players in the competition, and if Gareth Widdop can hit the ground running and get through the season relatively injury-free, Warrington should have a genuine chance of getting back to Old Trafford in 2020.
They need to be more ruthless against the “lesser” teams, and I’m not too inspired by their backline, despite Josh Charnley still being devastating on his day. Mike Cooper was very good last season, but captain Chris Hill isn’t getting any younger. They should have more than enough to comfortably finish top five, but I wouldn’t be surprised if they’re looking over their shoulders rather than pushing the Saints all the way.
Key Player – Daryl Clark. A tough one as marquee signing Widdop is clearly the highest-profile player in the Warrington squad, and will arguably have the highest expectations, but I just think Clark staying fit is priceless for Warrington. The difference when he is on the pitch to when he isn’t is astonishing.
