I’m still Hudd over heels in love with the game IT’S A GRIND OF MAGIC FOR GOLDEN OLDIE LEROY
HE TURNS 36 in a few weeks – but Huddersfield’s Leroy Cudjoe isn’t thinking about resting up any time soon.
Instead, it’s the opposite for the former England centre, who has switched positions and is now upping his workload in the pack.
Cudjoe, who starred in the 2013 World Cup, used to slice opponents apart with his pace and guile.
But he will be getting through the graft in the middle today when Giants host reigning World Club champions St Helens.
He started at 13 last week due to Luke Yates serving a three-match ban.
Cudjoe said: “It’s a position I played at the back end of last year and trained all this pre-season in.
“I’ve really enjoyed the transition so far and look forward to building on my performances each week, whether that’s starting or from the bench.”
Club legend Cudjoe is into his 16th season at hometown Huddersfield and is keeping an “open mind” on whether this will be his last year before retiring.
He added: “I have had a good preseason and feel good.
“So we will see how the season goes and how my body is feeling.
“It’s probably a decision I’ll make later in the year and have conversations with the club and family to see where I am at.
“I’m feeling really good and enjoying my rugby.”
Cudjoe has scored 116 tries in 327 games since debuting with Huddersfield in 2008.
But a major trophy still eludes him, with the 2013 League Leaders’ Shield his only silverware.
Having underperformed last term, missing out on the play-offs, more is expected of Ian Watson’s side this time.
Last week’s 16-8 opening-night win at Challenge Cup holders Leigh was a hint of what’s potentially to come.
But Cudjoe knows today’s opponents will be another step up.
He said: “St Helens are a top team and they’ll be up there again.
“They’ve recruited very well to add to the quality squad they already have.
“It was good to get the win at Leigh. There were some areas we were happy with and others we weren’t.
“It’s about improving on that performance.
“I’m confident in the squad we have for the season ahead.
“The key is performing each week – last week’s been and gone.
“We must focus on another good performance against Saints.”
Meanwhile, Cudjoe has backed skipper Yates, who took to social media this week to urge for consistency from the RFL’s disciplinary process.
He received a ban for a tip-tackle but saw Wigan duo Adam Keighran and Harry Smith escape any suspensions for similar offences.
Cudjoe said: “I agree with everything Yatesy said and understand his frustrations.
“We are frustrated as he’s our captain and an important player for us who has to miss three games. “All he’s asking for is consistency as he feels hard done by, which is understandable.”