WARRINGTON Wolves are now in training for the 2016 season and here are the pictures of this week's first sessions.

Head of coaching and rugby Tony Smith has called in the majority of his players earlier than usual in order to give his new-look squad and backroom team the best possible chance of hitting the ground running when the new campaign starts at champions Leeds Rhinos on Thursday, February 4.

New recruits Jack Hughes (Wigan/Huddersfield) and Joe Westerman (Hull FC) are among those attending this first week's sessions at Padgate Campus, while those on international duty and the majority of the overseas squadmen will return at various stages over the next six weeks or so.

Exclusive pictures by Mike Boden.

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Pointing the way: Warrington Wolves head of coaching and rugby Tony Smith

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Passing Penny: Winger Kevin Penny all set to feed a teammate

 

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Pedal power: Scotland international full back or winger Matty Russell gets on his bike

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A leg up: Gary Wheeler stretching in the gym

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Regrouped: Brad Dwyer, Ashton Sims and Sam Wilde in the foreground

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Hand ball: Gene 'Geno' Ormsby practising silky handling skills

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Check up: Joe westerman with head of performance services, Ben Stirling

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Good condition: Former Wolves hooker Jon Clarke back in the camp as head of strength and conditioning

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Go pro Joe: Charging forward is Wolves young back rower Joe Philbin

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A close eye: Assistant coach Lee Briers keeps a close eye on the players' field work

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Offloader: Ashton Sims releases the ball in a skills session

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Running Patton: Half back Dec Patton on the move

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Direction: Boss Tony Smith gives guidance

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Supporting King: Prop George King provides a foil for ball carrier Gene Ormsby

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Front line: Australian front rower Ashton Sims ready with supplies

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Handing over: Dec Patton releases the ball

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Your ball: Jack Hughes evades Gene Ormsby to slip a pass to Kevin Penny

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All smiles: Jon Clarke, happy in his work

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In focus: Tony Smith hands-on with the players at training

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Tucked up: Kevin Penny cradles the ball as he attempts to skirt Ashton Sims