JOHN Duffy is looking out for leadership qualities as Leigh step up their training in preparation for a return to the Betfred Super League.

Duffy is “very impressed” with the attitude of his new look squad as he contemplates who to choose as captain for Centurions’ 2021 campaign.

Scottish international Danny Addy was skipper for last year’s abandoned Championship season with Ben Reynolds and Liam Hood named as joint vice-captains.

Addy was a popular choice but has since joined Salford while Reynolds is now with Toulouse, potentially putting hooker Hood in the frame.

In 2019, Duffy named Micky Higham as captain with Martyn Ridyard-now at Swinton- as his deputy. Higham also led the team in 2017 when Leigh were last members of the top flight.

“We will pick a captain and release the squad numbers hopefully in the next couple of weeks,” confirmed head coach Duffy.

“We are looking at who has those qualities to be captain every day now. But I have got to say the boys are working really hard.

“They have had some tough days but they are all ripping in. They all want to get better each day which is great for me as coach.

“Everyone’s attitude has impressed and that’s been the biggest thing from the coaches.”

Duffy’s squad is undertaking four, double sessions weekly plus a Saturday morning training stint to ensure they can hit the ground running when the season kick-off is confirmed.

Leigh can slot in at least one friendly in the schedule but that is dependant on Covid-19 protocols.

Duffy still wants to add some recruits to his squad and confirmed new Head of Rugby Garreth Carvell, together with owner Derek Beaumont and operations manager Neil Jukes, are making progress.

“There are two or three we are close with and hopefully we can get something announced,” added Duffy.

“It’s been good to get Gaz on board. I played against him but didn’t know him too well. But his appointment means I can concentrate on coaching the boys.

“We have got plenty of good people on the staff and I am really excited by the prospect of Super League. I just hope it’s not long before we are told when we can all start.”

The Championship season is set to kick-off on the weekend of April 2-4 while League One is due to start on May 8-9. However, the first action will be the opening round of the 2021 Challenge Cup on March 20-21. Leigh enter with the rest of Super League for round three scheduled for April 10-11.