Hull KR: Rovers can spice up Cook's career

MATT Cook believes his move to Hull KR will kick-start his stalling career.

Cook started his pre-season programme with his new team-mates on Monday, following five years in Bradford's first team.

A two-hour chat with coach Justin Morgan convinced him to move to Hull – and he is now even more certain the decision to leave Bradford was the right one.

"I've been looking forward to the pre-season training," Cook told the Mail.

"There was a danger that my game was going to go stale at Bradford, but this is the change I needed.

"A week before the training started, I felt the nerves begin, but as soon as I arrived here the players and coaches have made me feel very welcome.

"I already feel at home here and when you join a new club, the sooner you feel that, the better.

"I had been at Bradford since I was 16 and I turn 23 on Saturday.

"The timing of my move couldn't be any better."

While he has nothing special planned for his birthday, he will take a couple of hours out of his moving time to watch England take on Australia in the final of the Four Nations.

Hopefully, his new team-mates Shaun Briscoe and Peter Fox will both be selected by Tony Smith for the Elland Road decider.

And Cook hopes one day he can follow in their footsteps and be able to pull on the England shirt.

"I hope I can do the same as Shaun and Peter," Cook said.

"It's great to see two Rovers players in the England team, but that's just rewards for their great season last year.

"Fingers crossed they do well and hopefully this move to Rovers can be the start of that journey for me.

"Firstly, I want to establish myself in the KR team and with tough competition, that won't be easy."

Cook's preferred position is in the second row – but standing between him and a place in the starting 13 are Clint Newton and Ben Galea.

Both had great seasons in 2009 but Cook is prepared to bide his time and learn as much as he can from the Australians.

"They are two of the best to learn from," said Cook.

"Theres' nothing wrong with a bit of competition.

"We are all team-mates and we all want what's best for the club.

"If I can get in the 17 man squad regularly, I'll be happy."