Having played just three games in 18 months, there’s little wonder Wigan’s Ryan Hampshire hopes to smash into 2024.

The utility player has more reasons than most for wanting to see in a new year. Crocked with a season-ending ACL injury playing for Castleford in June 2022, he still managed to pick up a one-year deal with Wigan. But Hampshire didn’t make his comeback until last May, featuring at stand-off in a Challenge Cup game against Leeds.

After that, with No6 Bevan French in stellar form that would see him win Man of Steel and Aussie ace Jai Field thrilling at full-back, he only managed two more appearances. However, as Matty Peet’s side claimed Grand Final success, Hampshire showed enough to earn another one-year contract – and now he’s out to make the most of it. He said: “I can’t wait for 2024.

“It’s been a frustrating couple of years not playing much due to injuries – it has been tough – so getting out there and getting to stay with Wigan for another year is really exciting. I didn’t come into this club expecting to play all the time. Coming off this sort of injury you don’t hit peak performance until another six to 12 months and I knew that.