Luke Walsh has refused to talk about his move to England, saying he’s fully focused on Penrith’s campaign of reaching the finals.
Armed with questions about Walsh’s impending move to St Helens next year, the Weekender was prohibited from asking the in-form halfback about his decision to leave the NRL.
Instead the 26-year-old said he’s worked very hard to improve various parts of his game to ensure Penrith have the best shot of remaining in the top eight until season’s end.
“I believe we can stay in the eight… it’s just about getting better each week, that’s what we’re concentrating on,” Walsh said.
“We’re focusing on all the little things that we value, especially our defence and just playing tough. If we keep working hard at that each day at training, we’ll get better and better and definitely stay in the eight.”
The former Newcastle Knight signed a two-year deal with English Super League side St Helens back in May and since then has continued to play brilliant footy, shutting up his long list of critics.
Walsh said a lot of hard work behind the scenes and the introduction of five-eighth Isaac John to the mix has seen him step up his game.
“Isaac’s been great, we’ve struck up a pretty good combination,” he said.
“Isaac takes all the pressure off organising players which has really helped me.”
Walsh’s defence has also been a highlight of his resurgence this season.
“If I get my defence right, the attack comes… so I’ve been concentrating on playing tough defence,” Walsh said.
Walsh has been an integral part of Penrith’s team ever since he joined the club in 2009. However, mediocre performances over the years meant Walsh’s days were numbered, with Panthers officials opting for the combination of Isaac John and former Dragons star Jamie Soward in 2014.
But until both parties part ways in September there’s still a big task at hand for Walsh – leaving a lasting impression behind at the Panthers.
