Hardaker is ready for redemption with help from ex-England captain Adams

AFTER hitting rock bottom, former England full-back Zak Hardaker is ready to reach for the top again after completing the first stage of his rehabilitation from alcohol dependence.

Within weeks of helping Castleford Tigers reach the 2017 Grand Final the former Super League Man of Steel found himself cleaning floors in a warehouse after testing positive for cocaine use.

Sacked by his club and subsequently given a 14-month ban, Hardaker was handed a lifeline by Wigan last May, but four months later put his fouryear contract in jeopardy after being convicted of drink-driving.

The Warriors decided to keep faith with the former Leeds favourite on condition that he attended the Sporting Chance clinic set up by former England and Arsenal footballer Tony Adams, the next president of the Rugby Football League.

Hardaker completed a 26-day residential course in Hampshire before resuming his training ahead of the new season and will make his first appearance for Wigan in Sunday’s friendly at Salford.

The 27-year-old roomed with three footballers attempting to combat similar problems and benefited from a session with Adams himself. “He told us his story, which was mind-boggling,” said Hardaker. “If it’s happening to someone who was the England and Arsenal captain, it’s quite a strong message.”