Adrian Morley inspired by Reds legends

Adrian Morley will run out at Old Trafford on Saturday night inspired by two United legends.

Bryan Robson – the original Captain Marvel – and Ryan Giggs – who like Morley hails from Salford – have greatly influenced the Warrington star’s illustrious rugby league career.

Morley, who grew up supporting United, soon admired the lion-hearted leadership qualities of the irrepressible Robson.  

He also instantly marvelled at the silky skills of Giggs, who was a highly talented schoolboy RL player himself. Morley, now 35, is hungrier than ever for success.

He, too, has Robson’s ability to lead and also possesses Giggs’ longevity to still play and perform at the highest level.

Now it’s his turn to take centre stage at Old Trafford.

Morley told MEN Sport: “Robson was also the captain of England  – I could see what a whole-hearted player he was and what a leader he was.

“He went out there and put his body on the line, as any good captain does for the sake of his team. I try to do the same – you have to.

“As for Giggs, well, he comes out of Salford like me and is just a legend. He continues to be a massive inspiration for me – he will be come Saturday. What a player and what a professional he is.  

“If you take a look at these two players and learn from them, you cannot go far wrong in life and sport. They both certainly have my respect."

Morley has dreamed about playing for Warrington in an Old Trafford Grand Final.

His time has finally come with his first pro club, Leeds, providing the opposition as they did at Wembley in August. It’s certainly been a memorable year for the big man who is looking forward to facing his old adversary Jamie Peacock in Saturday’s big clash. Prop Peacock will be playing in his 10th Grand Final.

“Ten Grand Final appearances is an absolutely phenomenal feat but that’s JP for you,’’ said Morley.

Morley has already savoured a Challenge Cup win over Leeds in the capital this season.

He had a key role to play in that game and his experience could again be invaluable on Saturday night.

The Wolves prop added:   “I cannot wait for the game to come around.  My mum and dad will be there with them living just around the corner. It’s going to be a great occasion.

What’s been a good year already can become a great one.

“Don’t forget, though, it was touch and go at one stage when I had major problems with my eye last year if I could carry on playing.

“This all came about due to an accidental clash of heads. A really dark cloud came over me as I started to wonder if that was time up on my playing career.

“I just had to be patient after undergoing surgery.  I so wanted to play on.

“Thankfully, everything turned out alright in the end and here I am still hungry for success and still enjoying playing. My career has been given a new lease of life. To win at Old Trafford would cap off what will be an amazing year.

“We certainly have a quality squad. Ben Westwood has again gone really well for us this term.  I really rate this guy. He continues to be a the model of consistency and is such a workhorse.

“Chris Hill is a young player with a very big future ahead of him. He has to be the buy of the year.

“Lee Briers continues to be the general but standards have been high right across the park.

“Leeds will, however, be tough opponents. They will not want to surrender the silverware. With men like Jamie Peacock in their side,  you know what to expect.’’