He was once on Manchester City’s books and is probably Super League’s smallest player but Leon Hayes is certainly packing a punch.
He’s loving life directing hometown Warrington around the park – having taken inspiration from fellow diminutive scrum-half Rob Burrow.
Hayes, who stands at just five foot four inches, has begun to establish himself after being given an extended run by new Wolves boss Sam Burgess.
Still only 20 years old, he’s started the last eight games – his longest stint yet – ahead of Saturday’s visit from Challenge Cup holders Leigh.
And Hayes, who featured in Sunday’s epic 31-8 Challenge Cup quarter-final win at derby rivals St Helens, has helped fire high-flying Warrington’s charge on both fronts.
Leeds legend Burrow, of course, tore Super League sides to shreds at just five foot five inches. Opposing teams predictably send plenty of traffic Hayes’ way but he loves the defensive side of the game.
And he insisted: “I’m used to it all [height] so it’s not too much difference. For the people watching I might not be the regular body type to be a rugby player so I understand. But I’m confident in my abilities so it’s all good.
“What Rob Burrow did just goes to show that literally size doesn’t really matter. He’s achieved everything in the game and the career he’s had is astonishing.
“I can’t help but be inspired by him, especially for someone like me who is small as well. But I’m just really happy from a personal standpoint and as a team. I think we’re going in the right direction and I am really enjoying it.”
Hayes came to rugby league late but isn’t wasting any time now. He explained: “I played football for a long time. I was at a few of the academy systems including Man City when I was seven or eight.
“But I ended up picking rugby in the end. And I love playing for my hometown. It’s massive to all the lads from Warrington. We don’t take it lightly: we represent everyone in this town every time we pull the shirt on.”
Hayes got his chance in round two after England captain George Williams was injured and hasn’t missed a game since.
He’s dovetailed with Aussie Josh Drinkwater initially and, more recently, with Williams helping Wire win seven of the eight games he’s been involved with. On lining up with Williams, Hayes admitted: “It’s amazing.
“But not just George and Drinky but Matt Dufty at full-back and Danny Walker at hooker, they are all players that are established and experienced in what they do. It makes life easier for me. And Sam [Burgess] has been really good with me.
“He’s just said do the basics well: kick well and defend well and the rest is coming. I really appreciate what he’s done. That win on the weekend has been the highlight so far. That felt pretty special.
“But it’s only one game so we won’t get ahead of ourselves. We move on.”
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