DANNY Addy was a natural choice to captain Leigh in their bid for Betfred Super League promotion in 2020.

That’s the belief of head coach John Duffy whose side are third favourites, behind London Broncos and Toulouse to win the Championship play-off final.

The former Bradford Bulls and Hull KR star will skipper the side with Liam Hood and Ben Reynolds named vice captains.

“Danny has just led from the front in everything we have done; whether that is in the weights room or out on the field,” said Duffy.

“He is always galvanising everyone and leads by his actions. The lads look up to him.

“I coached him at Scotland but there have always been egos and big players in that squad. He wasn’t able to show who he is.

“I saw him a change in him though when Scotland went through adversity (at the 2017 World Cup) and some players were sent home. He stood up and was counted in the draw against Samoa.

“I am sure he will have a great year,” added Duffy who is excited but realistic about the challenge ahead.

“Even when I was still playing the league was getting tougher each season.

“Then with the structure changing and increase in salary cap it went through the roof.

“Toronto were a cut above last season but now everyone can have a real dig at it this year. But it will be tough-you can see that by some of the squads like London and Toulouse.

“I went watching Halifax hast week (against Hull) and they looked really competitive.

“Swinton were beating us at home last season with 10 to 15 minuets to go. They will have another good season and I am sure York will back up last year.

“However, we have got to get our own house order first. That’s why we have concentrated more on fitness in the off season.

“We have probably only done four weeks with the ball so we knew we would be rusty and clunky against Salford. Besides, we don’t want to be peaking in round one.”

Leigh, London and Toulouse are 10/3 joint favourites to become regular season winners with Championship sponsors, Betfred.

“There’s more pressure which is what you want if you want to go and coach in Super League,” added Duffy.

“It is a big year for me and my staff to see if we can do that but the pressure is good.

“It doesn’t always matter what quality you have. If you get everyone buying into what you are doing you can do special things.”