Newcastle starlet Dominic Young is hoping to force his way into the Knights side for the opening round of the NRL campaign after catching the eye in pre-season.
The Knights are priced at 28/1 to win the 2022 NRL grand final and Young is keen to play a big role as they push for a place in the top eight to play finals footy.
Big early impression
Young only arrived at Newcastle ahead of the 2021 NRL campaign after making the move from the UK and he caught the eye when handed a chance by coach Adam O'Brien.
The 20-year-old played in six NRL games, scoring four tries, and now hopes to move his game on to another level after putting in a solid pre-season.
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The talented winger was also a try scorer in Monday's trial against the Canterbury Bulldogs and hopes he is doing enough to earn a starting role for round one.
"I had a chat with Adam last year and I told him how much I'd learned," Young told reporters. "But I want to get out of the mindset of 'I've just got here and I'm learning'.
"I've had a really good pre-season and have felt the best I've ever felt. Hopefully I can get a spot for round one - that's my aim."
English hopefuls
Young took a gamble when leaving the UK at such an early age but it seems to be paying off and he thinks it will not be long before he is joined by more English youngsters.
"I know a lot of players come out when they are more established, but I thought: 'why not me?' I really wanted that challenge," Young added. "I think the clubs over here are looking more at British lads. I think it's on a lot of the younger guys' radar now."
