St Helens legend James Graham thanks his former club as he prepares new role with them

One of England’s all time great players and certainly one of the best in the 21st century, James Graham, has returned to his NRL side Canterbury Bulldogs to give them an emotional thankyou message.

It was reported last week that the Bulldogs had been growing financially but also growing a culture under new boss Cameron Ciraldo, who had recruited Graham and other former Super League giants Mark O’Meley and Willie Mason to serve with the club in advisory roles.

Speaking about the Bulldogs, he simply said: “It’s part of rugby league, you’re always welcome back.

“I just wanted to say thank you.”

This came as he thanked the club for the role they played in his career which saw him claim a golden cap which was presented in England during the Rugby League World Cup at the amateur club where it all started: Thatto Heath Crusaders.

On this he said: “The volunteers there [Thatto Heath] come from a place of love.

“They love the game.”

It is this respect for the past that makes Graham so valuable to the Bulldogs new era so now wonder Ciraldo brought him back.

The hard hitting forward also spoke about the future of the Bulldogs and who will be a star of their team:

“Josh Addo-Carr is a superstar. He is what our sport needs more of.”

Graham may well get to work with the flying winger Addo-Carr in his recently appointed role at the club as they look to forge onwards in Ciraldo’s maiden campaign.