Sheffield Eagles: Ben Blackmore aims to get knee fixed over winter

The versatile winger ended the 2018 season nursing the problem, with director of rugby Mark Aston needing every available body to see his threadbare squad through to the end of the campaign.

The Eagles player of the year now has the down time required to finally bottom out the niggling ligament issue, and he admits that he is looking forward to coming back refreshed in 2019 with signs suggesting the Eagles will be a different force next season.

'My aim is to get away and get my knee fixed and aim to be back as soon as possible,' the ex-Featherstone flyer explained to The Star.

'I am getting through at the moment, but it will all be sorted at the end of the season. It is a big year next season and I want to be right for it.

'When I am playing I am not thinking about it. The discomfort goes away and the adrenaline gets you through. After the games it feels a little sore, but it is what it is.'

Blackmore was one of only a handful of players to survive Aston's squad overhaul, and is now almost seen as an Eagles veteran as he approaches his third season with the club.

Whilst the past couple of years have represented a struggle for the Eagles, Blackmore has been one of Aston's shining lights.

The 25-year-old is now more optimistic than ever about the club's prospects, with four new arrivals confirmed and plenty more to follow.

The signs are looking good according Blackmore who is keen to make next season count.

'I have another year here, and from what I hear we are making strides in trying to get people in for next season,' he added.

'We'll see how it goes, it would be great if we could strengthen and have a better season. I have been here two years and we haven't had the best of times.

'The last couple of years we have been pulling people in from abroad and had players from everywhere coming in and training with us. If we can get our business done, pull in a good squad and enjoy a good pre-season then we can move forward.'