Daniel Smith keen to learn from new Head Coach

Castleford forward Daniel Smith has said he is looking forward to learning from somebody who played his position, in the shape of new Head Coach Lee Radford.

Radford took over ahead of the 2022 season, replacing long-serving Head Coach Daryl Powell, who has taken the hot seat at Warrington.

He had two spells with Hull FC, and also went on to coach for them. Radford also spent seven years at Bradford and helped them to two Grand Final wins.

Smith believes his style suits the way Radford likes to play, and is looking forward to learning from him.

He told the club website: “It is really good to learn off someone who used to play in my position because I think he likes ball playing forwards which definitely suits my game. I am excited to learn from him because I am sure it is going to help my game and give me a few pointers about what he wants me to do.

“We have got a very big forward pack for next season with the likes of George (Lawler), Joe (Westerman), and Kenny  coming in and with the lads we have already got in there.

“We have a mix of some lads that are ball playing and some tough guys as well. I am really looking forward to working with all of them.”

Smith looking forward to getting back out there for hometown team

In the same interview, Smith also spoke of the pride he has of playing for his hometown team. He has been with the Tigers since 2019, having previously started out at Leeds. He has also played for Huddersfield.

On playing for the side, he added: “My aim for next year is to be playing consistently because I thought last year, I had a pretty decent year. I stayed on the field and played as well as I could so hopefully, I can take that into 2022. We got to the Challenge Cup Final last year and hopefully we can get some silverware.

“I always enjoy playing down here with the fans because I think they are great. With being a Cas lad, I know how much it means to them. I will be doing everything I can to get them fully behind me and the lads.”

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