Wigan Warriors chief heaps plaudits on Brad O'Neill - 'The best form he's been in'
Brad O’Neill has been one of Wigan Warriors’ top performers this season
Wigan Warriors coach Matt Peet believes Brad O’Neill is producing the best rugby of his career after another outstanding campaign in the number nine shirt.
The 24-year-old has become one of the first names on the teamsheet over the last few seasons, delivering a series of influential performances on both sides of the ball as the Warriors continue their push at the top end of the Super League table.
Peet feels that a full pre-season and increased responsibility within the side have helped O’Neill hit career-best form.
“Yeah,” Peet replied when asked if this was the best form of O’Neill’s career so far.
“I think the fact that he had a pre-season, the consistency in his game, attack and D, he is playing bigger minutes for us, which is probably something he’s probably always craved, he is getting that now, and he is certainly responding.
“He is growing up, isn’t he? He is younger than you all, and even me, sometimes think! I’d agree with you that it’s the best form he’s been in, and I know he’s keen to improve further.”
O’Neill’s defensive work has once again been a standout feature of his game, with the hooker regularly topping the tackle charts.
“That’s a real upside of his game,” Peet said. “He can defend as tough as a middle forward, and with his energy, he is quite an inspirational player.
“I think he is one of those players that the rest of the middles love to play besides, and likewise, I think he is having good games because the lads he is out there with are getting him some front-foot ball and working hard with him in defence.”
O’Neill’s current success comes after overcoming several serious injuries during his young career, including multiple ACL setbacks.
Peet paid tribute to the resilience shown by the England international throughout those difficult periods.
“Mainly to Brad himself,” he added. “He had a bad injury as a 16-year-old, he’s had a couple of ACLs, but he is a fine young man.
“He is exactly what you would want in a Wigan player - he is very physical, he is hard-working, wants to get better, a lovely lad and a proud dad. Honestly, we’ve got a good group here and he is one of them.”