Jacob Wardle has the potential to be as good as his older brother Joe.

That’s the view of Giants Player Performance Manager Steve Hardisty as the 15-year-old Illingworth junior starts to make his presence felt as part of Huddersfield’s Under 16s set-up.

The younger Wardle is already proving his reputation isn’t just based on the family name, having joined Giants teammate Jon Luke Kirby in being named in the England Youth squad.

And Hardisty knows the possibility of two Wardles appearing in the same Giants Super League line-up in a couple of years’ time isn’t beyond the realms of possibility.

“Jake’s an exciting prospect,” said Hardisty.

“And there’s absolutely no doubt at all that he can follow in Joe’s footsteps and make a name for himself in Super League. I wouldn’t be at all surprised if they eventually become Super League teammates.

“That’s obviously something for the future, but the potential in Jake is definitely there.

“There are definite similarities in the way the brothers play. Jake has played in a number of positions during his time in the juniors, but we see him following Joe in being a centre.

“Jake’s very athletic, has the ability to run a great line and his timing, both in attack and defence, is spot-on.

“On top of that, he has great game sense and is full of desire, attitude and commitment.

“As you can tell, I rate him very highly, as does everyone else at the club.”