Shenton was always sure of eventual England return

Castleford centre Michael Shenton is delighted to have made a return to the England squad, and has revealed that he always believed that time was on his side when it came to playing for his country.

“I always thought I was young enough to get back in,” he said.

“Coming back here was a reason for that; to become an important player in a team again. When Ian Millward brought me back, that was one of the goals I set myself.

“If I never got back in then nobody could take away the fact I played for England. The recognition is nice and it’s great for Castleford to have three players in the squad. It’s recognition of where we’re at as a club and how well we’re playing.”

He made his last international appearance in 2010, playing in that year’s Four Nations tournament in Australia and New Zealand.

Going away on an international tour is something which remains very special to Shenton.

“Going on tour is massive,” he added.

“It’s a special occasion that doesn’t happen many times in a player’s career. However there’s quite a way to go in the season yet and form can dip and rise, so I’ve got to keep on top of my game.

“You’re up against a lot of competition in the centres and that’s motivation in itself to play well and improve.

“I’m happy with the recall obviously It doesn’t mean too much at the minute but going forward it means I’m in Steve Mac’s eyes, which is pleasing and a bit more motivation to finish the season as I started it.”