Hampton’s future a centre of attention
COWBOYS ‘ Mr Fix- It’ Ben Hampton could be a long- term solution to the club’s centre issues with the utility revealing he’d be willing to “give it a good crack”.
The second- last Cowboys have looked sluggish this season and Hampton’s electric speed off the mark added much- needed X- factor when he scored three tries in seven games at centre from Round 6 to Round 12.
The 26- year- old has since returned to the bench utility role virtually by necessity, but he may finally find a permanent home in the backline with the Cowboys set to undergo a mini roster overhaul.
Off- contract centres Kane Linnett and Javid Bowen are reportedly unlikely to be re- signed.
Former international centre Justin O’Neill, who has taken up an option in his favour for next season, has been in and out of first grade this year, but has found form on the wing since being recalled for the past two games.
Hampton copped a brutal knock to the ribs in last week’s win over Newcastle, but is expected to play in Saturday’s clash with the Roosters in Sydney.
Youngster Enari Tuala has locked down a centre spot over the past few weeks, and it’s clear Hampton would love a similar chance.
“I don’t think it’s that difficult ( changing positions constantly), that’s my role and I’ve played that role for a number of years now,” Hampton said.
“I did really enjoy my time at centre, to be honest. I wasn’t there too long, but I really did enjoy it.
“Maybe one day I’ll be given another crack, I’m not too sure, but at the moment I’m back in that utility role. I’ll continue to do my role, and do what I’m asked.”
Pressed on whether he’d like a long- term chance, Hampton said: “Yeah I would. I’d definitely grab it with both hands and give it a real good crack.
“But at the moment it’s not something I’m really thinking about, I want to finish the season off on a high.”
Many Cowboys players could essentially be playing for contracts in the last five rounds.
With Johnathan Thurston to retire, just three of the 11 other Cowboys off contract will line up against the Roosters. One of those is Shaun Fensom, with the forward hopeful of staying in Townsville after joining the club from Canberra two years ago.
“I haven’t really spoken to my manager. I’ve got a young family and I’m focusing on that at the moment, hopefully it sorts itself out soon,” Fensom said.
“I love it here and would like to stay, we’ll see what happens.
“I’d like something ( to be resolved) before the end of the season, but we’ll have to wait and see.
“There are a fair few players coming off ( contract), but we need to get out there on the weekend and do our jobs still.
“We can’t have this playing in the back of our minds.”