London Broncos’ new skipper has never captained a team at any level – but he is ready to take on the challenge.
Tony Clubb was handed the armband last week after former incumbant Craig Gower stepped down to return to Australia for personal reasons.
Clubb, who has made 132 appearances for Broncos, was head boy for last weekend’s 30-30 Super League draw with Castleford Tigers, and, while the 25-year-old was pleased not to start on a losing note, he said the team threw away the win.
His straight talking attitude suggests he has what it takes to steer Broncos off the foot of the table – although he may need to recover from the shock first.
He said: “I am still asking myself why they chose me as skipper. I never saw myself in that kind of role and there are plenty of lads – such as Mike Witt – who I would put ahead of me in the pecking order.
“It was a shock to be asked, and I’ve never captained a team before so it was a bit daunting too. However, nothing really changes for me in terms of how I play.
“It was more of a surprise because I’ve not long come back from seven weeks out with a knee ligament injury.
“There was pressure on me in the Castelford game, but it was a good game, albeit one we threw away.”
Broncos, although bottom of the table, cannot be relegated this season as the Super League runs on a club licence basis, where clubs must fulfil criteria to earn a three-year stay in the top flight.
However, that is due to change at the end of next season when relegation and promotion returns.
Off: Craig Gower stepped down from the captaincy and returned to Australia for personal reasons
Clubb said: “There is safety with the three-year licence, but with promotion and relegation, there is more to play for as the season goes on. I am a big fan of the promotion and relegation format.
“At the moment, it is more a pride thing not to finish bottom.
“We still have Salford, who are just above us, to come to our place and we also have to play other teams in the bottom half.
“Although it was ultimately disappointing to draw against Castleford, it is something to build on.”
Broncos host Warrington at the Priestfield stadium on Saturday, kick-off 3pm.
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