Deon Cross was very thankful to the coaching staff for his progression in Super League after penning a new two-year deal with the club.
The 27-year-old has taken to life at the top level by storm. Despite arriving as a natural winger, his switch to centre was a masterstroke by Paul Rowley – and Cross has not looked back since.
Forming a solid right-edge partnership with good friend, Ken Sio, Cross has notched five tries in 28 appearances across 2023 to back up last season’s tally of 14 in 29 games.
Speaking exclusively to our YouTube channel, Cross explained why penning fresh terms was made easier by the squad of players he works with every day.
He said: “I think because we’ve got one of the smallest squads in Super League, we’ve just got a great group of lads here.
“Everyone works hard together; everyone’s got the same vision, the same goals and there’s no egos around the place.
“The same with the coaching staff – they’re brilliant. No-one’s below anyone, everyone is on the same level and we’ve got a great group of lads.”
Released by St Helens as a junior, Cross progressed through Rochdale Hornets, Barrow Raiders and Widnes Vikings before landing a move to the Red Devils.
It has certainly not all been plain sailing for the now-England Knights international, but he was able to recall the moment his luck changed for the better.
“I had a scholarship at St Helens when I was 15/16 and then got released – I just wasn’t good enough,” Cross continued.
“I played amateur and then had a couple of years in the Championship.
“I was fortunate to get a call from Ian Blease and he was willing to offer me a 12 month contract, with the option of staying if it worked out.
“I’m very grateful to the club, very grateful to Bleasy, grateful to all the coaching staff – especially Paul Rowley for giving me that chance of making my Super League debut!”
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