Selfless McQueen puts Tigers first

LETTING people down is not part of Chris McQueen’s make- up, even if it means missing a rare chance to play in front of his Cairns- based family.

The Wests Tigers recruit is on the comeback trail from a serious neck injury suffered at the Titans in 2017 but despite a looming preseason visit to Cairns to face the Cowboys on February 17, the 30- year- old has shelved personal desire to make sure he rips in at full- tilt at his new club.

McQueen’s English dad Kevin lives in Cairns and instead of making an emotional return, he’ll travel with the team and turn fan for a night as his teammates battle in what will be sauna- like conditions.

“I think injury- wise I’m ready but physically I’m going to hold off one more week and get a run in the second trial,” he said.

“Obviously first and foremost I’m excited about the footy season being back but secondly I have family in Cairns. My dad lives up in Cairns and I’ve got a few cousins up there and I’m excited to see them and bring them along to the game.”

The backrower expects the Tigers’ halves options – Josh Reynolds, Luke Brooks and Benji Marshall – to “light it up” at Barlow Park and keep the local Cowboys fans on their toes in the trial.

Wests Tigers players will arrive in Cairns next Wednesday to train and participate in league clinics in the region in the lead- up to the February 17 encounter.