Warrington full-back Richard Mathers has outlined "massive aspirations" to earn an England call-up after rediscovering his best form.
Wolves full-back targets international honours
Warrington full-back Richard Mathers has outlined "massive aspirations" to earn an England call-up after rediscovering his best form.
The 29-year-old received much acclaim as the second-best England-qualified full-back behind Paul Wellens when he featured in Leeds Rhinos' Grand Final-winning side in 2004.
But his thriving career faltered as a result of two knee reconstructions, an injury-plagued spell in Australia with Gold Coast Titans and a dismal stint with Wigan on his return to the Super League.
Mathers, now reunited with his old Leeds boss Tony Smith at Wolves, believes he is close to recapturing the form he displayed at Rhinos and is hoping to make an international outing in the end-of-season Four Nations series in Australia.
And with current England full-back Shaun Briscoe ruled out with a knee injury, Mathers could even get his opportunity against France in the mid-season international.
Aspirations
"I've got massive aspirations to play internationally," said Mathers. "I was close before and I'd like to think I'll be close at the end of the season.
"I'm getting there. I've had two serious injuries and it takes a long time to recover. Mentally you're great but it does take a time to get your touch back."
Mathers, who will face former club Wigan at the Halliwell Jones Stadium on Saturday, believes Wolves are showing similarities to how Leeds were playing just before they claimed their maiden Super League title.
"It's no coincidence that I'm playing well under a coach I played well under at Leeds," said Mathers.
"The standards here are similar, there's a buzz around the camp. It's very similar to 2004 when the boss came in at Leeds. I'm playing with a group of players who allow me to play my game."
Impressive
Both Wolves and Wigan have made impressive starts to their Super League campaigns, and Saturday's match will see the winner take over at the top of the table.
"It's a massive game," said Mathers. "There is a lot riding on it. It's our toughest challenge yet without a shadow of doubt.
"It's going to be a mouthwatering clash and, regardless of the result, I think both teams will be there or thereabouts come the play-offs."
