Wane is full of praise for legend Ben

WIGAN boss Shaun Wane has paid the ultimate compliment to the oldest player in Super League on the eve of his 500th match by revealing he would have loved to have coached him.

Warrington’s durable forward Ben Westwood, who turns 37 this month, will reach the landmark in tonight’s derby at the DW Stadium.

Westwood is one of just two everpresents for the Wolves this season, a remarkable record for a player who began his Super League career with Wakefield in the last century.

“I love my team playing against Benny Westwood,” said Wane, who is leaving Super League at the end of the year to join the Scottish Rugby Union. “He’s a player I would have liked to have coached.

“I rate him very highly. He’s a tough competitor who has bashed our lads a few times and we’ve bashed him a few times. I like him.”

Westwood has indicated he would like to play on in 2019 and Warrington coach Steve Price is unlikely to stand in his way.

Wigan gained a handsome win over Price’s men at the Magic Weekend but they are still smarting from last month’s 23-0 defeat in the Challenge Cup.

Warriors half-back Sam Powell, who will make his 150th appearance for the club, said: “We’re still hurting from that so we’ll probably use that as motivation.

“It’s going to be tasty. Warrington-Wigan is always a big game and quite a few players have played for both sides.”

ROCHDALE have strengthened ahead of the crucial battle against relegation in the Championship Shield with the signing of highly-rated young halfback Elliott Jenkins.

The 19-year-old has come through the academy system at St Helens and has represented the club at both under-19 and reserve level. He is also a member of the Wales under-19s squad, coached by Hornets’ development coach and former forward Ant Walker.

Head coach Alan Kilshaw said: “Elliott is a player we have been monitoring since we were made aware he could be available at the end of the season.”