Paul Aiton looking to put “hard” season firmly behind him

Aiton in action: Image credit:Wakefieldexpress

Hooker Paul Aiton is looking forward to the return of Super League more than most.

Wakefield’s Papua New Guinea international missed the second half of last season through a broken jaw suffered during a mugging on a break in Spain.

The 27-year-old had to look on in frustrating fashion from the sidelines as Wakefield charged into the top eight, and he’s hoping to be a key part of more success this term.

“It was hard for me,” he revealed.

“It wasn’t like an injury from a tackle, it was just one of those things that happened away from footie.

“It’s all I’ve ever done really, play footie, so to not do anything and feel like you’re missing out, it was a tough thing being away from footie so long so I’m just trying to get back into it.

He continued: “It’s the longest spell I’ve had out since I left school so it’s a long time. I’m eager and ready to settle back into the groove.”

Aiton returned to competitive action in Wakefield’s Boxing Day trial game at champions Leeds Rhinos and has featured in all four of the close-season clashes in preparation for Super League XVIII.

He is set to start at the Provident Stadium tomorrow, Sunday, when Wakefield kick-off their 2013 campaign against Bradford Bulls.

“Everyone’s pretty keen on Round 1, it’s going to be a big one,” he said.

“There’s a bit more excitement in the camp this week, finally it’s come around again and you’ve spent all your season building up for this start of the season so it’s a good feeling.”

Snowfall and freezing temperatures did not help Wildcats’ pre-season training, but struggles to get on outdoor pitches should not hamper Wakefield when they take to the Provident Stadium pitch, according to Aiton.

He said: “It’s the same for everyone. You want to be on the field doing what you have to do but it’s just how it is. That’s what makes good teams too, they need to take that and make the best of the situation.”

Aiton has been joined by his younger brother Chris in Wakefield this year, with the 20-year-old arriving with the hope of playing for Championship side Dewsbury Rams.

Problems obtaining a visa to play for Glenn Morrison’s side have thwarted his chances, however, and for the time being he is playing amateur rugby for Sharlston Rovers until, hopefully a visa enabling him to play for the Rams gets the green light.

“He got offered a Queensland Cup contract in Australia but he was keen, he wanted to come over,” said Aiton.

He got a job and he was training and we found out we couldn’t register him for Dewsbury. He needed a sports visa but he was only training an hour every afternoon three days a week. He was working 40 hours a week so we got him a work visa instead.

“Because of that he went to Sharlston to keep playing and we’re contacting the border agency to see if we can sort it out.

He came over, he’s enjoying it but he wants to play at a higher level. “I think he’s got what it takes he just needs the chance. He’s a tough player, he’s not as good looking as me though!”

Source: Wakefieldexpress