GLENN Stewart isn’t accustomed to playing in struggling sides and sees no reason to change a career habit now he’s joined Leigh.

The former Australian Test star’s winning mentality has contributed to his elevation to Centurions’ vice-captaincy alongside Harrison Hansen and skipper Micky Higham.

And the Wollongong-born warrior believes the Super League new boys should be looking up rather than down on their return to the top flight next month.

“I have heard from some people that there isn’t any pressure on us this season because no one expects us to win many games,” says Stewart. “Or that we are going to drop straight out again.

“I know the chairman has said he just wants to stay up this season. But we have a lot higher goals than that,” insisted the ex-New South Wales, Manly, South Sydney and Catalans back row forward.

“When you are a footie player, no one wants to lose.

“And we will be going into games with that attitude.

“I know-just through training- on any day we will give a team a run for their money,” added Stewart, who celebrated his 33rd birthday on the final day of the team’s warm weather training camp in Lanzarote.

“The key for us will be backing up week after week.

“That will be the challenge for all us whether you are a bloke who hasn’t played Super League before or a seasoned international.

“We have all got to do it together as it is such a long season.”

Stewart cut short his stint in Perpignan to move to England and he’s been delighted by what he’s found. And while he disagrees with Derek Beaumont on the side’s aspirations in 2017, he is full of admiration for the Centurions owner and vision for the club.

“Just from top to bottom everyone is very humble and it is infectious,” he told the Journal.

“There are no egos which is good because that only causes problems.

“From the very first phone call I had with Derek he made it clear what his vision is for the club.

“It’s not a short term thing.

“He has a long term plan and is going it about the right way.

“He is putting an infrastructure in place and making sure he has the right people in the right spots.”

Stewart, a former NRL Grand Final winner, is honoured by his new leadership role. Most of the boys have only known me since I arrived so I am humbled to be given the vice captaincy,” he confirmed “Now, I just want to get out there and lead by example. ‘H’ too is a natural leader while Micky Higham’s résumé speaks for itself.

“Blokes just listen when he talks.”

Stewart may be a seasoned professional but the complexities of Super League’s structure can still baffle even the most experienced star.

“I like the idea that it gives teams a chance to get up to into the next grade,” he said.

“But I am still a bit confused when it gets down to the 8s at the end of the season.

“We definitely don’t want to be involved in the bottom section and that million pounds’ game.”

Hansen and Stewart will combine in the supporting role to club captain Micky Higham.

Jukes said: “Harrison leads by actions. His commitment and attitude is as good I’ve ever seen in a pro. He has the ultimate respect from every player.

“Glenn has brought a wealth of experience, knowledge and drive to the whole culture in being ruthless in lots of areas.”