Ben is facing a big decision

BEN WESTWOOD is using the cut-throat title race as a guide to whether or not he should retire from rugby league.

The prop turns 37 later this month but is an ever-present for Warrington this season and is in impressive form.

But Westwood (inset), who celebrated his 500th appearance at the weekend, said the next few weeks will be make or break for him.

He said: “At the moment I would like to play on next year but my body might decide to pack in on me in three or four weeks’ time.

“I will have a good idea how I’m feeling after some really tough games that are coming up for us.

“After that I will decide with (head coach)

Steve Price and the club what is the best way forward. But I feel alright and don’t feel too old.”

Westwood’s first target is to play every game this season, and he said: “I don’t think I’ve ever gone a full season without having at least one ban.”

His other big aim is to help inspire the Wolves to their first Grand Final victory. Price’s team have dropped to fourth following their 13-12 defeat by second-placed Wigan at the weekend.

But Westwood said: “There is no drama or panic – we have got every chance to do it with the squad we have got.

“There are three games before the Super League split and then another seven after that, so that means their are 20 points up for grabs.

“We’re four points behind Wigan but that’s not a lot in this game. We are happy with where we are.” Several Wigan opponents in Friday’s derby hadn’t even started school when Westwood made his Super League debut in 1999. But the former England star said he thrives on mixing it with the young players.

He added: “I thrive on their energy and see it as a challenge when I come up against some good young players.

“I still think I can beat them. Whether I can or not is another thing, but in my mind I can and if you think it, you have more chance of it happening.”