After a frustrating spell with the Castleford Tigers, Richard Mathers is looking forward to a fresh start with the Wakefield Wildcats as they prepare for their opening Super League clash against Widnes Vikings on February 3 (Widnes 4/6, draw 20/1, Wakefield 6/5).

The former Leeds Rhinos (9/2 Super League Grand Final Outright) and Wigan Warriors full-back had two years left on his deal at The Jungle but was told he would not feature in the club’s plans under new head coach Ian Millward.

Wakefield boss Richard Agar saw an opportunity to bring the 28-year-old to Belle Vue and the experienced player has signed a one-year loan deal with the club.

With his debut for the Wildcats just around the corner, Mathers is looking forward to the start of the Stobart Super League campaign.

He said: “It’s quite refreshing to know that you are wanted because you do doubt yourself.

“I just want to enjoy this year and we’ll see what happens.”

After finding himself out in the wilderness at Castleford, Mathers could be tempted to secure a permanent move away from the Tigers but the back is now just look forward to starting afresh with the Wildcats.