BEN Westwood is tipping teammate Joe Philbin for a bright future after working in tandem with him during Saturday’s win over Brisbane Broncos.

Westwood and Philbin both came off the bench as replacement props during the 27-18 success and look set for similar roles in tomorrow’s Super League clash with Castleford.

The duo have followed similar paths by starting in the second row before moving to prop and Westwood believes the 22-year-old is set for big things.

“Philbs is a big strong lad, he’s had a really good pre-season,” he said.

“He’s lost a bit of weight, gained a bit of muscle and he’s looking really well.

“I thought he was unlucky to miss the Grand Final last year as he was in great form leading up to that.

“He’s got another year and another pre-season under his belt so he’s that little bit more experienced and that’s starting to show.”

Philbin’s move into the front row could in part be down to the injury Westwood picked up during the Challenge Cup Final defeat to Hull FC last August.

The 35-year-old needed pectoral, shoulder and bicep surgery and had five operations in total before returning to the team against the Broncos.

“It was great to get back out there, it’s been a while! I felt alright and the body has shown up alright,” he said.

“The last time I was out there was a disappointment for myself and the club but what a way to come back.”