Penrith Panthers co-captain Kevin Kingston has declared his desire to play on next year despite suggestions this would be his final season in the NRL.
Kingston, who turned up to training in a ‘moon boot’ on Monday afternoon with a foot injury, said if he’s playing well enough he definitely wants to continue his career after this season.
“I definitely want to play next year but it’s a week to week thing,” the soon to be 31-year-old said.
“I don’t want to start looking into the future too much. I want to stay in the now and start winning some games and get us to the finals.”
After a last minute change of heart by Panthers bosses last year to give the 10-year veteran a career lifeline, pressure is again back on club figureheads as to whether they give their inspirational captain another shot.
Pressure is also starting to mount on Panthers coach Ivan Cleary as to whether Kingston still warrants a spot in Penrith’s run-on squad as the year progresses.
While the Panthers haven’t been playing the type of footy fans were hoping for so far this season, many have questioned whether Kingston still deserves to start games in place of livewire James Segeyaro, who many believe isn’t getting enough game time off the bench to make an impact.
“It’s a pass mark,” Kingston admitted when asked about his form this year.
“I’ve done some good things but I definitely want to play better – I’m going to have to if I want to stay on.
“I think there’s pressure on everyone, not just myself. We’ve got such a strong NSW Cup side, a lot of first graders there, so there’s pressure on everyone to perform.”
Unfortunately for Kingston, some fans may get their wish this Sunday against Newcastle if he fails to pass a fitness test due to a footy injury suffered during the loss to Cronulla a fortnight ago.
“I did it (foot) in the first half but I ended up finishing the game,” he said.
“If I just rehab it well then it should be right. It’s up to me whether I can run on it or not.”
