A REAL SAINT

Slow starter Walmsley feeling just champion

- GARETH WALKER

ALEX WALMSLEY admits he felt like an “imposter” for much of the early part of his Super League career.

Now recognised as one of the world’s best props and with four Super League titles under his belt, he is preparing to mark 10 years at standardbearers St Helens.

Kristian Woolf’s champions will have their first run-out of pre-season at home to Leigh Centurions tonight in a clash that doubles as Walmsley’s testimonial game.

And for the towering 31-year-old it helps remind him of his unusual journey to the top.

Walmsley was still playing at his local amateur club in Dewsbury beyond his teenage years, having been overlooked by a host of top-flight academies.