LEIGH Centurions’ new boy Josh Charnley isn’t taking a first team place for granted but aims to put a “frustrating year” behind him after swopping Warrington for the Championship leaders.

Charnley, Super League’s all-time third highest try scorer, could make his Leigh debut at Bradford Bulls on Sunday (kick-off 3pm).

But with 11-try Blake Ferguson and Krisnan Inu, second on the Championship’s points ladder this season, in fine form, the 31-year-old winger accepts he may have to be patient.

“I don’t want to come in and disrupt things,” Charnley told Journal Sport ahead of Wednesday’s first training sessions with his new team mates.

“I don’t want to step on anyone’s toes. I have already said I just want to come in and help out in anyway this year and start enjoying my rugby again.

“But if there is an opportunity to play and any of the lads need a rest I will happily step in.”

Charnley has initially joined Adrian Lam’s side on loan before taking up a two-year deal from 2023 onwards.

The ex-Wigan favourite missed only one match for Warrington in 2021 but has found himself out of favour with new Wolves coach, Daryl Powell this term.

His last game in primrose and blue was a 40-22 loss to Wigan on April 29. Despite a lack of match time, Charnley says Lam can rely on him if chosen for the trip to Odsal.

“Up until last Thursday, I was still training with Warrington and doing my own stuff off field as well,” he said. “I am fit enough.

“There were a few other clubs interested in me but after speaking with Chessy (Chris Chester) I realised Leigh was the best option.

“They are building for Super League; it is a club that belongs in Super League and I want to be part of it.

“It was an easy decision. I also know a few of the lads already and I don’t have to relocate.

“The way Leigh are playing at the moment is exciting and Lammy has got the balance right.

“I have kept an eye on them for the last few months. They are playing some good stuff and it looks a real positive place to be at. And I want to play with a smile on my face again.”

Leigh are currently three points clear at the top after Featherstone’s surprise 28-20 home defeat by Batley. However, Rovers host Newcastle on Saturday before Centurions travel to Bradford.

*On loan Leigh winger Kieran Dixon marked his Widnes debut with a try in Vikings’ 26-22 win over London Broncos. Centurions’ team mate and fellow loanee, Luis Roberts, didn’t feature.