Numbers count for nothing says Huddersfield Giants' Martin Aspinwall

Jan 19 2010 by Chris Roberts, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

MARTIN ASPINWALL is refusing to read anything into the Huddersfield Giants numbers game for 2010.

The 28-year-old former Great Britain winger has worn the No2 shirt since first arriving at the Galpharm Stadium at the start of the 2006 season.

This year, however, Aspinwall has doubled up and been handed No22, with youngster Leroy Cudjoe the new No2.

That might be seen by some as a reflection on the players’ ability.

But the philosophical Aspinwall couldn’t disagree more, and instead intends to use that as an extra source of motivation following his switch from a winger to a back-row forward.

“A number is just a number, and there’s a lot more for me to concentrate on than what’s on the back of my shirt,” said Aspinwall, who is in the final year of his current Giants contract.

“I always thought the No2 shirt would go, because I’m no longer classed as a winger at the club, and I certainly didn’t expect to get 11 or 12, because they’ve been taken by two international second-row forwards in Lee Gilmour and David Fa’alogo.

“So I always expected to get a high number, and 22 suits me fine.

“At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter what you wear, it’s how you play. You’ve just got to produce your best and see where that takes you.

“I know some people do try and read things into the number you’re given, and if that’s the case it’s fine by me. I suppose you can use that as added motivation.

“But what will spur me on is trying to make sure I play as regularly as I can in Super League this season.

“I know I’m going to face some really tough competition for places, but I’m ready to accept that challenge and do what I can to establish myself as a back-row forward as quickly as possible.”

Aspinwall made a promising start to his life in the pack towards the end of last season.

He had his first taste of top-flight back-row action in the 32-16 triumph at Harlequins in July, and admitted he found it tough.

But having continued in the role for the rest of the season – including an appearance in the Challenge Cup final defeat to Warrington at Wembley in August – and then training throughout this pre-season with the forwards, he is confident he can make a big impact.

“This pre-season has been tough, particularly the first eight weeks, but it’s been different and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed it,” he added.

“Because I’m still so new to the position I feel I’m learning all the time, and that’s really freshened me up.

“Most of my time has been spent training as an edge back-rower, which isn’t too far removed from playing out in the centres, where I began my career.

“I’m happy with the way things have been progressing on the attacking front, and I’m also comfortable with the way you have to defend in the position, because I’ve always regarded myself as a solid defender.